Dad pushes teen to drink at his house
Dear Abby: My parents have been divorced since I was little, but I still visit Dad often, especially now that I’m fully vaccinated. What’s causing the problem is I am leaving for my first year of college. Dad has been offering me alcohol while I’m at his house. I would be lying if I said I have never accepted a drink when he offered one, mainly out of curiosity. My mom, however, fervently believes I shouldn’t touch alcohol until I’m 21. (I’m 19 now.)
I don’t want to disappoint her because she’s very strong in her opinions about it. But I also don’t want my first alcohol experiences to happen states away from either parent while I’m at college. Dad shares this sentiment, but he pushes me to drink more often than I am comfortable with.
I’m not sure which of my parents’ sides I should take. What do you think?
Anxious About Alcohol
in Georgia
Dear Anxious: In the state of Georgia, it is against the law for someone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol. By pressing you to drink, your father is breaking the law. Listen to your mother. She’s right, and your father is misguided.
Dear Abby: I’m married to a wonderful, caring man. I work long hours. Because “Carl” is retired, he does most of the cooking, for which I’m grateful. What he does NOT do is share the TV.
When I come home after a tough day at the office from a job filled with heavy responsibilities, he expects me to watch political YouTube videos with him. If it’s not that, then it’s woodworking or some other hobby of HIS. I have tried going into another room and watching TV there, but if I do, Carl gets hurt feelings. If I play on my phone, then I’m not attentive enough.
I love him, but I have to have some time to just relax and unwind from the load I carry. He won’t watch what I want to watch — ever. It has to be his way or nothing.
I can’t believe that in 2021 I have this issue with a man. Please help.
Can’t Win in Arkansas
Dear Can’t Win: Draw the line and TELL him you need a specific amount of time to unwind and concentrate on YOUR interests. If that means he has to accept your leaving the room to watch something that interests you, he is going to have to adjust. If he pouts, let him, and suggest the two of you save “co-viewing” for weekends.