Monday, January 2, 2012

Embarrassed Mom

In response to 3rd advice question on page:  http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/tribu/askamy/ct-ae-1230-amy-20111230,0,4575874.column


Amy, not sure what Embarrassed Mom will gain by making a sarcastic remark like the one you suggested.   Do you want her to add more flames to a fire?  That Embarrassed Mom goes beyond mentioning their ages by adding that they are part of the “hippie generation,”  implies the attitude of what else would one expect.  Mom has not approved of her children’s choices for a long time.   That her children “brag” about having not written a “single thank-you note since they left home,” suggests that Mom must have made a really big deal about this to begin with.   It’s unfortunate that at their ages that they are still rebelling.  Have to wonder how often Mom still criticizes them for them to even make such remarks.   Embarrassed Mom most likely needs to keep her mouth closed and respect that as adults they have chosen how to live their lives.  It would have been helpful, Amy, to have pointed that out.  Also, explaining to Mom that there are other ways of thanking people, such as calling or thanking one in person, would have been appropriate.  If they are rude, there is nothing that she can do about that.   You were totally off base on this one.  

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Dealing with Freeloaders

In response to 2nd advice question on page:  http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/tribu/askamy/ct-ae-1228-amy-20111228,0,3326103.column


Dear Amy:  Sarcasm is definitely your strength, though not necessarily what a sensitive, caring person, like An Irritated Hostess, needs to hear.  Honestly, the Hostess and Host really need to get on the same page.   Instead of worrying about what her husband may not do, she should be discussing the situation with him, not you; after all that is what a marriage is all about!   In terms of the freeloader, yes, his time is up, and he is taking advantage of their kindness.  Allowing him to hang around with zero responsibilities is detrimental not just to this family, but to himself!   This freeloader needs to grow up and become self-sufficient (not dependent on others)!  Do they need to give this person a deadline?  Absolutely!   They should stick to that date, and change their locks.