A woman writes to Dear Abby expressing her disappointment and frustration with her partner for not accompanying her to her cousin’s wedding in Mexico, as he chose to attend a friend’s wedding instead. She is upset that he prioritized his friend over her and their unborn child, feeling unsupported and unprotected. Abby points out that the partner’s actions reveal his selfishness and lack of concern for his family’s well-being, raising concerns about his future role as a husband and father.
In a separate letter, a survivor of childhood sexual abuse expresses confusion and pain over her mother’s decision to keep her abusive ex-husband’s last name. Despite the trauma she and her sister endured, their mother stayed with the abuser, causing ongoing distress. Now caring for her mother with dementia, the survivor struggles with anger and sadness, wondering if she is too sensitive. Abby validates the survivor’s feelings and encourages her to seek counseling for healing and support, offering resources like the RAINN hotline.
Dear Abby addresses both letters with empathy and provides practical advice for navigating difficult emotions and seeking help. The column emphasizes the importance of self-care, seeking therapy, and setting boundaries in relationships, while acknowledging the complexities of family dynamics and trauma. Readers are reminded of the importance of addressing past trauma and prioritizing their well-being in challenging situations.
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