Texarkana families often turn to the classic “Dear Abby” column for guidance on everyday dilemmas. In a recent submission, a mother wonders if it’s inappropriate to hear her adult daughter’s complaints about her husband’s quirky behavior. She feels it may strain her relationship with the son‑in‑law and wonders whether a wife’s strongest loyalty should be to her husband alone.
Marital advice
Abby advises that there are no universal rules governing such conversations. Each family can decide what works best. If the mother prefers not to be the marriage adviser and her husband is comfortable listening, that arrangement may suit everyone. Abby suggests keeping counseling sessions out of the mother’s presence if she wishes to avoid the topic.
Saving electricity at home
Another reader, who signs her note “Thrifty in Texas,” complains about her husband’s habit of leaving lights on in closets and pantries for long periods. Abby recommends installing motion‑sensing light switches that automatically turn off when a room is unoccupied, a simple fix that can reduce electricity use and prevent future arguments.
Engagement ring etiquette
A third question comes from a woman whose 47‑year‑old son recently announced a divorce. She gave her late husband’s engagement ring to the daughter‑in‑law and later added a diamond‑and‑emerald band. She asks whether she can ask for the rings back. Abby notes that if the couple has children, the heirloom ring might be set aside for them. If there are no children, etiquette generally supports returning the original engagement ring to the giver. The additional band is not covered by the same custom, but a polite request may persuade the ex‑spouse to return it.
About the column
“Dear Abby” has been a trusted source of personal advice since 1956, originally founded by Pauline Phillips and later written by her daughter Jeanne Phillips. Readers can submit questions to www.DearAbby.com.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
