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Ask Amy: Brother is estranged over father's gift

By Amy Dickinson, Tribune Content Agency on

Dear Wondering: Many months after seeing you one time, this person has reached out and expressed the desire to get together at some point. They are not issuing a specific invitation or even asking a question, but basically putting out a vague feeler.

If you don't want to forge a relationship, you can start the distancing process by not replying to this email quickly. Wait a few days and then respond with a noncommittal, "I'm so happy spring has finally sprung! I hope you're doing well and adjusting to life here."

If they issue a specific invitation, you could respond by saying, "I'm sorry, but I don't think that would work out. I wish you all the best, but we don't seem to have much in common to build an active friendship upon."

Dear Amy: I was so cheered reading your previous "Best Of" column devoted to the stuffed animals from childhood that many of us have carried with us through life. Coincidentally, this column was published on the day that news of the coronavirus pandemic broke. It comforted me during a tough time.

-- Comforted

 

Dear Comforted: I wish I still had my childhood "Teddy."

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(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.)


 

 

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