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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Neglectful mother left mark on woman

Marcy Sugar and Kathy Mitchell Creators Syndicate

Dear Annie: I am the stepmother of a lovely young woman, age 29. “Daria” was 2 when her mother left, and her older brother has reported that Mom was neglectful and suffered fits of rage. She continually took them elsewhere to be cared for. Luckily one of those places was our house.

My husband eventually taught the children to simply accept their mother as she is and to rise above it. But the result seems to be that Daria shows very little emotion. She makes friends easily, but all of her relationships dry up after a short while. – Other Mother

Dear Other Mother: Daria may have learned to close off her emotions because her mother’s behavior was so erratic and neglectful. In order to protect herself, she learned not to care, because then, when she was rejected, it wouldn’t hurt as much. After all these years, the behavior is difficult to change without professional intervention. Please suggest she speak to a therapist who can help her connect with others in a more meaningful way.

Dear Annie: When did it become acceptable to bring board games with you when you are invited to someone’s home for dinner?

I am a senior citizen. I think fondly of people when I plan, budget, shop and prepare the nice homemade meal that I invite them to enjoy with me. I want to relax and enjoy good conversation, along with their smiling faces. – Tired in the Tropics

Dear Tropics: You’ll forgive us for finding this problem rather charming. So many readers complain about dinner guests who whip out their cellphones and never look up at all. If friends bring over board games, it’s simple enough to say, “Let’s put the games away. I’d much rather have a conversation.”

Please email your questions to anniesmailbox@ comcast.net, or write to: Annie’s Mailbox, c/o Creators Syndicate, 737 3rd Street, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254.