Ask Amy: Mask request brings on ridiculous reactions

Amy Dickinson, Tribune Content Agency on Jan 14, 2021

Dear Confused: If you had it to do all over again, would you marry your husband in a heartbeat? Some days yes, some days probably not.

The first couple of years of family life with a baby can be extremely stressful. I think you should decide to shelve your question. Put it aside.

I can’t tell you whether to be worried about the future of your marriage, but I can say, with certainty, that “hanging in there” is something to celebrate.

Dear Amy: I want to give your readers a different perspective on how rough the holiday season has been.

I am married to a police officer. We do not have children. A lot of years I am alone on Christmas or attend family events by myself because he is working or sleeping to prepare for his shift.

And you know what? It's OK! I plan movies to watch, light some candles and buy food I love to indulge in.

Several years ago, my mom was in the hospital on Christmas and those doctors, nurses, and support staff were there, too.

Firefighters, hotel workers, road crews do not get to celebrate with their families, either.

For us, this is not the "new normal,” it's just normal.

Hopefully next year will be normal for those of you going through this "new normal,” but remember next year that your normal is not everyone's reality.

— A Different Normal

Dear Different: Thank you! You’ve offered your important perspective at the perfect time. None of us should ever forget the lessons we have learned this year. My gratitude goes out — way, way out — to all who work so hard to give the rest of us a “normal.”

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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.)