Greetings, Abby I have a long history of marriage. My entire marriage has been hampered by my in-laws. Over the past ten years, I’ve had numerous operations and major health problems. Among other things, I had to endure colon surgery after my cancer returned.
I had surgery on my hand most recently. My in-laws couldn’t quit laughing at me after they learned. One of them inquired, “Are there any more planned?” after laughing when she saw me again. I simply walked away without responding. I wish to remove them from my life. My spouse doesn’t help. Am I mistaken? — RESULT IN INDIANA
Greetings, Recovery: Your in-laws lack empathy and have a sardonic sense of humor. Given that your spouse is unwilling to shield you from the harsh response of his family, I can’t blame you for trying to protect yourself. It is healthy to stay away from those who have harmed you, and you would not be incorrect to do so. Take a step back if you want to.
Stories by
Abigail Van Buren
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Dear Abby: Bride wants mom and aunt to walk her down the aisle despite mom s objections
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Dear Abby: Teen is wary of off the wall neighbor, whose odd habits are becoming odder
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Dear Abby: My sister insists I keep surveillance camera uncovered when I visit mom in assisted living home
Greetings, Abby My wife’s nephew needed a car eight years ago. At the time, his parents’ credit was not good. He found a car when I accompanied him to a car dealer, and I co-signed the loan without hesitation. He made his loan payments on schedule.
Refinancing my auto loan is one option for me as I am now having financial difficulties. His parents immediately and vehemently rejected my suggestion that the nephew cosign for me. This nephew, Abby, is an adult who is capable of handling his own finances. I feel as though my heart has been stabbed. Was that a bad idea for me to propose? — In Pennsylvania, it was rejected.
DEAR REFUSED: I can see why you believed he would repay you, given that you had cosigned a car loan to assist this nephew. It’s strange that your wife’s relatives intervened and called it off. Your nephew ought to have informed you that he didn’t feel comfortable cosigning with you since he is now an adult. I don’t hold it against you if you feel wounded.
Abigail Van Buren, better known as Jeanne Phillips, is the author of Dear Abby. Her mother, Pauline Phillips, began the company. For more information, visit www.DearAbby.com or send an email to P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
