DEAR ABBY Man’s marital status revealed after death

Dear Abby:

This is a delicate situation. Four days after my boyfriend (whom I had been seeing for 8 1/2 years) was killed in an accident, I found out he was married. He had claimed for years that he was divorced and even produced a copy of his divorce decree several years ago. It is a long story. He has been dead for five months now, and I need something back from his wife that he borrowed from me: my father’s Mason ring.

I was devastated when I learned he was married and had lied to me all those years, but I have no intention of telling his wife or causing her pain. (I don’t think she knows about me.) I would like the ring back because my father passed away many years ago, and I want to pass it on to my daughter, who never knew her grandfather. He died before she was born. My boyfriend’s sister (who lives with his wife) knows about me. She told me she won’t tell her sisterin-law, and I should leave her alone. I’m not trying to hurt anyone because I wouldn’t want anyone to do this to me if I was in her place, but I am lost about how to approach this. Twisted Situation Down

South

Dear Twisted Situation:

I assume you have explained the situation to the wife’s sister-in-law. Contact her once more and tell her you want the ring and need her help to get it back without starting WWIII. However, if she’s still uncooperative, you may need a lawyer to write the grieving widow a registered letter explaining the entire situation and asking that the ring be returned. (I’m hoping there are identifying initials engraved inside that do not match her husband’s.)

I am 9 years old, and I have a twin brother. Sometimes he’s nice to me and other times he’s annoying. When he’s annoying, sometimes he

Dear Abby:

doesn’t stop. Everywhere I go — our car, the kitchen, table, everywhere — I hear him babbling about nonsense. Even in my happy place (my bedroom). I wish I could lock my bedroom door, but my parents keep telling me not to lock ANY of the doors (except the car) in the house. Could you tell me what to do, please? I’d really like to stop being annoyed for once in my life.

Bothered Twin in Austin,

Texas

Dear Twin:

Is your brother TRYING to be annoying, or is he just ... annoying? If it’s the former, talk to your parents about it because he may need to be put on notice. If it’s the latter, then YOU should talk to him. Explain that sometimes you don’t feel like talking or playing and you need to be left alone. Agree on a signal — like hanging a sock (or some other item) on the outside bedroom door knob so he’ll know. And when you do, make sure you let him know you’ll do the same for him when the situations are reversed, because they will be.

Dear Abby:

Easter is a day to be thankful for Christ that our sins are forgiven. Opinionated atheists at the dinner table distract from the meaning of the celebration.

Is it wrong on Easter Sunday to exclude relatives who no longer practice the Christian faith?

Saved in Minnesota

Dear Saved:

Before making up your mind, ask yourself, “What would Jesus do?”

Complex, sensitive and conceptual, you’re a very giving person in public, but privately you’re your own slave master. This year, you give more to yourself and thus are happier than you’ve been in years. If single, you can feel lonely and withdrawn, so it’s good for you to be with a soul mate. You meet yours this May. If attached, it’s been a long search. CANCER won’t ever let go.

The Stars Show the Kind of Day You’ll Have: 5-Dynamic; 4-Positive; 3-Average; 2-So-so; 1-Difficult

ARIES (March 21-April 19) ★★★ Today puts you in touch with old companions. Good or bad, they haven’t changed. Think on how treasured friendships enrich your life. One of your new acquaintances may join your inner circle. Accept an invitation or two. Tonight: New group affiliations.

This Week: An unexpected spiritual contact occurs.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) ★★★★★ It is a wonderful time to study another language or learn how to cook a foreign cuisine. There will be avenues for expressing your highest potential. Grandparent and grandchild relationships provide special joy and build happy memories. Tonight: Releasing all that you have outgrown.

This Week: Interesting shift in your career.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) ★★★★ Dreams and fantasy abound. Those closest to you are preparing for some significant lifestyle changes. Be supportive. Allow loved ones to explore. Whatever shifts are due will be for the better. Tonight: A new love could replace a longtime attachment.

This Week: An ex reappears from the past.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) ★★★★ Others seem more assertive. Offer affirmations for harmony and justice. A lighthearted attitude in competitive situations is essential. A delightful new animal companion can stray into your home and heart. Tonight: Go out somewhere beautiful on an actual romantic date.

This Week: An old obligation comes up — which you complete.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) ★★★ A new environment or routine is possible. Be receptive to new changes, but wait to see which way the wind blows before moving forward. Past patterns in regard to your health hold the key to understanding changes in your vitality. Tonight: A favorite recipe.

This Week: An intriguing social invitation — very tempting.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) ★★★★★ Love and romance are highlighted favorably today. Attend social functions on Zoom and develop promising relationships by taking the initiative. A loved one may share news of a new relationship or creative project. Tonight: Don’t forget flowers and champagne, or fine chocolates.

This Week: You make an important decision about your health.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) ★★★★ A residence might require repair work. Be tolerant and diplomatic if a family member shows some frustration. A sage smudge of your home will usher out stale energies and clear the air. Tonight: More happiness around home and hearth.

This Week: Hectic, and everyone is late.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) ★★★★ Your judgement is good and your mind is alert. It’s a good time to attend to transportation needs. Conversations provide new perspectives. A wedding invitation may be discussed — to go or not to go? Tonight: Decisions can be made from different points of view.

This Week: A time to honor your family.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) ★★★★ Your thoughts revolve around adding to your earning power and perhaps perfecting a new job skill. An item long desired is purchased. A problem is solved through reflection and research. Revel in all that you have rather than lamenting lack. Tonight: Write down your best qualities.

This Week: You shine in a new role.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) ★★★★★ All that is mysterious attracts you. Today heralds growth, new perspectives and opportunity. Prepare for events to unfold suddenly. Be adventurous in spirit. Rise to the occasion before chances are lost. Tonight: Use your words creatively. See your ideas blossom.

This Week: Retreat and produce your masterpiece.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) ★★★★ The need for peace and privacy is strong today. There is much you would prefer to keep to yourself. Acts of charity and personal sacrifice bring unexpected rewards. Moderate exercise works wonders for your overall well-being. Tonight: Your leadership ability grows.

This Week: You are asked to be a member of a prestigious group.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) ★★★★★ Friends are a special blessing today. Membership in a group or organization can be a catalyst for happiness and accomplishment. Making contacts with helpful and powerful individuals and displaying your talents may also absorb you. Tonight: Do some online networking.

This Week: You secure a new client or contact.