Seeking advice, support is admirable
Dear Annie: My letter about how to deal with my wife about getting a second dog made it in your column. I never in my wildest dreams ever thought it would! This is a nightmare right out of a TV sitcom whereby the husband does something stupid that publicly humiliates his wife, and their neighbours and friends are privy to the inner workings (or non-workings) of their marriage. This is not your fault at all; I’m the one who was stupid enough to write.
As of this writing, she has not seen the column, nor have any of her friends. By the way, we live in a small town and my wife has a very visible job.
I cannot tell you how much trouble I am in if she finds out. She will hate me forever. I have done many things to cause her frustration over the years; public humiliation may be that which causes irreparable harm. She’s already had to put up with numerous health problems and financial problems and other problems.
I’m in so much trouble. What do I do?
Caught Writing to Dear Annie
Dear Caught Writing: You might be digging yourself into an even bigger hole than your new puppy could dig in your backyard. Now, let’s get you out of the hole.
First of all, it’s never wrong to ask for help. If your wife sees your letter and is upset with your writing to me, then share how you wanted to gain perspective as to why she didn’t want a second dog and wanted to be understood for your needs. Seeking advice and support is admirable, not embarrassing.
Consider sharing the letter with your wife directly. It’s better to have the news come from you than from a friend or neighbour. She’ll learn just how much getting a second dog means to you, and you’ll get to hear her reaction to the letter, not just what you fear she’ll say.
Dear Annie: Our neighbour, friend and co-worker has a green thumb and a wonderful, bountiful garden. The garden produces more than she can ever use, and so, each week during the summer, we are presented with squash, kale and peppers.
It is more than I can use either, but I do not want to cause hurt feelings.
What is the right response to the generosity of someone I do not want to offend? She gives me more than I could use, even if I were a good cook, which I am not, by the way!
Summer’s Abundance
Dear Summer’s Abundance: Sounds delicious. What a lovely neighbour. The correct response is to continue to show her gratitude and appreciation. If you can’t eat and use all of the vegetables, then you have two choices. You can politely tell her exactly that — that you really only use about half of her produce. Or you can give away the produce to friends and family.
Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@ creators.com. To find out more about Annie Lane and read features by other Creators Syndicate columnists and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.