Annie’s Mailbox: Mom wants phone call from kids who text

Dear Annie: This has been bothering me for weeks. For Mother’s Day, I received text messages saying, “Happy Mother’s Day” from both of my older children. I was expecting at least a phone call. They do the same thing on my birthday. I don’t keep them on the phone long. I realize they are busy with my grandchildren.

I never say anything to them, but it hurts to think they can’t at least have a real-time conversation with me. Is this the new generation’s way of communicating? Shouldn’t they know better, or am I just being old-fashioned? – Hurting Mama

Dear Mama: Kids communicate by text these days. If you want a phone call, you will have to say so instead of stewing in silence. You are not expecting too much for them to phone you on special occasions, but they can’t read your mind, and we suspect they aren’t aware that you find it hurtful. Please speak up. (And since they have children, there’s no reason you cannot phone and wish them a happy Mother’s Day, too.)

Dear Annie: “Thought I Was Part of a Large Family” should be aware that as we grow older, attitudes among siblings can change. My brother and I had a rivalry through college, but as we grew to understand each other (and convinced Dad to stop comparing us), we began to get along much better.

“Thought” should go to the family reunion and see whether she can get to know her distant siblings and nieces and nephews better. There is a real possibility that she could build a good relationship with at least one of them. – K.