Sister stole earrings when visiting
Dear Abby: My parents and sister live three hours away, so my family stays with me when they come to town. Over the past few years, I noticed things began to disappear from my home. They are usually small and portable — earrings, in particular.
The idea of someone stealing from me was very upsetting. When I mentioned it to my sister, she suggested that it could be our housekeeper.
After my wedding band vanished, I had a security camera installed. A few months later, two more pairs of earrings went MIA, so I had the surveillance company review the tapes. It turns out the thief is my sister!
The idea that she has gone through my things and helped herself with no remorse after I opened my home to her disgusts me. When I confronted her, she denied it. She later told my mother that she did take the earrings but didn’t know why I wanted them “because they were so ugly.”
I can no longer welcome her to my home. Why would she do this? Trusted My Sister In Raleigh, N.C.
Dear Trusted: Not knowing your sister, I can’t say for certain why she would steal from you. She may have kleptomania and be unable to control her impulses. Or, she may resent you for what she perceives you have that she doesn’t (a happy life, lovely home, etc.) and has been taking the items to “even things up.”
While I don’t blame you for being upset, please understand that she’s a troubled woman who needs help. Unless you lock up valuables, she should not be in your home.
Dear Abby: I’m a 58-year-old male. My wife divorced me last year after 33 years of marriage. Must I wait the recommended seven years before dating? I heard I must wait one year for every five I was married. Ready Or Not In Michigan
Dear Ready Or Not: I wonder where you heard that! The answer is no. At 58, you’d better start soon. You’re not getting any younger.
Dear Abby is written by Jeanne Phillips, daughter of Pauline Phillips, the original Dear Abby. Write Abby at www.DearAbby.com or c/o The Ottawa Citizen, Box 5020, Ottawa, K2C 3M4. For a reply, send a self-addressed envelope. Abby covers postage. Include name and phone number if you want your letter published.