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March 31, 1999
Ann Landers - Creators Syndicate
Dear Ann Landers: Two years ago, I was a married woman
who became involved with a married man at work. At first, it
was just flirting, but before long, we knew we were in love.
It was exciting and wonderful. We finally decided to divorce
our spouses and get married.
What do I have today? My two children, who were once happy
and well-adjusted, are now in therapy. I also have huge legal
bills. My in-laws despise me because they see their grandchildren
only twice a year. I have a husband who sits in a chair at night
drinking beer and smoking cigarettes while I cook, clean and
fold laundry.
I wish I had used the effort I spent trying to hide my affair
and put it to work saving my first marriage. I would have been
a lot happier. Please print my letter so other married women
will think before they start fooling around. -- Smart Too
Late
Dear Smart: I wonder how many married women (and men)
who are flirting or fooling around in the workplace will see
themselves in your letter. I would not be surprised if your words
nipped some of those romances in the bud.
Thanks for all the marriages you may have saved today. As
for yours, I suggest counseling. If the couch potato won't go
with you, go alone.
Dear Ann Landers: I come from a large family. A few
months ago, we lost our dad. During his illness, he made a detailed
list of items he wanted to leave to his children and grandchildren.
Mom told him, ``This is still my home, and these are my things,
too. Nothing leaves.''
This led to a discussion between my brothers and sisters.
We agreed that nothing would be taken from the house. A few siblings,
however, have been taking items for their children. This angered
the rest of us, and we asked them to return these items. We argued
that Mom is still alive and these things belong to her. As of
now, not one of the siblings has returned anything.
We also feel that when Mom goes, the heirloom items should
be handed down to us and not to the grandchildren. Please, Ann,
print this letter and your comments so the entire family can
read them. -- Discord in Canada
Dear Canada: I have no idea if Grandma is leaving behind
the crown jewels of the Ottoman Empire or some pots, pans and
beaded lampshades. I suggest she hire a professional appraiser
and an attorney and get a will spelled out now. If she doesn't,
I predict a world-class family fight that will turn into a two-generation
disaster. Meanwhile, forget about the items that have already
been taken from the house. It sounds as if there's enough dissension
as it is. |