Dear Sal,
Recently my son got married, and I invited a former co-worker to the wedding. She and I had become friends over the past few years, even though she is quite a bit younger than me. She is in her twenties, and I am in my forties. Over the time I have known her, it has been a roller coaster. She was continually confiding in me and asking for advice regarding her numerous romances. Every other month, there was a new man in her life that she was going to marry, have a baby, or move to another country. Throughout this time she was writing my nephew in prison. I really appreciated this, but this became a little strange too when she was writing him and telling him he was her soul mate and wanted to have his child. Recently he was released, and my nephew was the best man at my son’s wedding, and I know this was the main reason she attended. I think she became very angry when my nephew did not give her the attention she thought she would get. She left abruptly and later emailed me a sarcastically polite note saying that she thought I was rude and she was tired of being the “good friend” who always gave advice and did not want to be mistreated by me any more. I was shocked by this, wrote her back, and told her off. Should I let this friendship go or try to patch things up?
Shocked and Confused Friend
Dear Shocked and Confused,
Let it go. This girl has a lot of growing up to do and really should seek some counseling regarding how she handles her many relationships. I wouldn’t write her back again. I don’t think this will get you anywhere. Just be glad that you don’t have to work with her any more. This will make it easier. Put it behind you and make some new friends, ones that are closer to your age. Good luck!
Sal
Dear Sal,
I am a widow of 17 years who has lived a frugal existence. I have always worked in administrative positions, I type with great speed, can compose business letters, and know very well how to answer phones. I have run out of options in my job search. No one ever calls for an interview; I think it might have something to do with the fact that I am 76 years old. In this unfortunate economy, it is even more important for skilled seniors to gain access to jobs. My income is remaining the same level while food, gas, insurance rates all keep going up. The other thing that keeps going up is the amount of Birthdays, Weddings, and Graduations that my growing family blesses me with. I am an artist; I write and paint, however, these things don’t seem to bring in money.
Still Have some to Give
Dear Still Have,
You are amazing! At your age to go out looking for work! Hats off to you, however it is time the family can understand your position in this economy trying to live on a fixed income. You should not have to work, especially to supply gifts; give them something greater. It would be more meaningful to receive a painting or a piece that you have written. Something from the heart is a gift forever.
Sal
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