Ask Amy: Dating Prince Charming necessitates love contract
Should I just cut him out of my life, or just suck it up and act like nothing happened and keep him in my life?
I've confronted him about it, and he says it wasn't a big deal and that it made me tougher.
-- No Extended Family
Dear No Family: Because you have been diagnosed with GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) and PTSD due to the childhood abuse you have survived, I don't think "sucking it up" is an option for you.
You should not force yourself to spend time with your unrepentant abuser.
You survived a heartbreaking and traumatic childhood. You have lived a successful life. I hope you are pursuing ongoing professional help for your continued challenges.
You have the right -- and responsibility -- to protect your health and keep your distance from your tormentor. Break the chain. Make your own family. Celebrate your success and survival.
Dear Amy: "Unsure Grandmother" described raising her 21-year-old daughter's grandchild.
The child's mother is completely irresponsible.
Neither you nor the grandmother says anything about the father of the child.
He has as much responsibility to care for the child as the mother does.
Even if grandma didn't mention him, shouldn't you have said something about him? Mom didn't make this child by herself.
-- BB
Dear BB: You're right. It seems that everyone in this equation ignored the responsibilities and rights of the father, including me.
========
(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)
