Dear Abby: My husband of 22 years used to travel a lot for work. He had an emotional relationship with a colleague he met during his travels. He never saw her again. Since then he has become aloof and sometimes rude towards me. We went to marriage therapy and it helped.
One day while I was recovering, a friend told me that her husband had called her and said, “He’s thinking of you.” She called me soon after. I’m so hurt. Now it’s hard to believe or trust him. Although he has had problems with pornography in the past, he is not doing it now and has also changed his job. Is there hope for our marriage? Can I trust him again? — Heartbroken in Virginia
To all my heartbroken dear ones If you two can get to the root of why your husband might be looking for something outside of the marriage, there may be hope. This should be done with the help of a qualified marriage and family counselor.However, don’t trust him again unless you are sure he is Really repent.
Dear Abby: Many years ago, I read your mother’s “Definition of Maturity” over lunch. It was right after her father passed away, and reading this book made me realize how lucky I was. These were all lessons I learned from my parents at home.
This item is probably in your booklet. But could you please print it again in your column so other readers can see it? It’s an important reminder of what we should strive for. — Mary H. Iowa
dear mary: I’m happy to do it. I agree that Mom’s definition of maturity is a timely reminder, and perhaps something people (of all ages) can learn from today.
Definition of maturity
The maturity levels are:
Ability to continue working until the work is completed.
Ability to perform work without supervision.
The ability to carry around money without spending it.
and the ability to endure injustice unwillingly.
To get revenge.
I was right to guess that her definition of maturity was part of the “Keepers” booklet. Keepers was a collection of articles that readers suggested we put together in a booklet, many of which we read until they aged, yellowed, and frayed. The result is a booklet containing wise observations and entries on a variety of topics, including parenting, children, aging, animals, and forgiveness. You can order by sending your name and address along with a $8 check or money order (US funds) to Dear Abby Keepers Booklet, PO Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling charges are included in the price.)
The witty and philosophical Keepers booklet is an affordable and welcome gift for newlyweds, pet lovers, or those recovering from illness, and is filled with down-to-earth, witty, and philosophical wisdom. It’s packed with lumps.
Dear Abby was written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at DearAbby.com or PO Box 69440 (Los Angeles, CA 90069).
