A 62‑year‑old Texan who was born with a cleft lip and palate wrote to Dear Abby describing a painful family dynamic. After numerous surgeries and dental work to improve his appearance, he says he grew up with supportive friends who never teased him. However, he believes his father has harbored deep resentment toward him ever since his birth.

Father’s ongoing hostility

The writer recounts that his father never invited him to spend time together and has always seemed angry whenever they meet. Even now, at family gatherings, the son feels the father’s hatred and prefers to keep his distance.

Advice from Dear Abby

Dear Abby recommends focusing on the positive relationships the writer already has, especially his loyal friends. She suggests limiting direct interaction with his father at family events, maintaining a courteous but distant demeanor, and concentrating on the rest of the family for support. The column reminds readers that many families have members who don’t get along, and that such tension does not have to dominate family life.

Other letters in the column

In the same edition, a reader named “Stewing Stranger” expressed concern about a persistent unknown woman claiming to know a former Marine named Steve Hall. Dear Abby warned that the situation bears all the hallmarks of a scam, advising the caller to block unknown numbers and avoid responding to unsolicited letters.

Another reader, “Better Than That in Atlanta,” asked why holiday photos make her look older and scarier than she feels. The advice offered was that modern high‑definition cameras can exaggerate features, and she could request digital touch‑ups or simply wear sunglasses when viewing the pictures.

Dear Abby’s column, founded in 1956 by Pauline Phillips and now written by Jeanne Phillips, continues to provide personal advice on a wide range of family, social, and consumer‑related issues.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.