Ask Amy: Grief without flowers creates a void

Amy Dickinson, Tribune Content Agency on Mar 3, 2023

He does not contact her back, so I say, “Why keep this mess?”

– Upset

Dear Upset: In our still-evolving digital age, “blocking, muting, hiding, and ignoring” exes are all issues that couples may need to openly navigate, while they move toward the all-important romantic digital touchstones of deleting your dating profiles and announcing your relationship status on social media.

Why does your guy keep this mess? Does he maintain digital trophies from all of his previous relationships? Is he in fact ghosting this previous girlfriend, rather than using his grown-up voice to actually and officially break up with her?

Because this bothers you, you should ask him! This should not be an interrogation, but a conversation. Do not tell him what to do, but do tell him how this makes you feel.

You’ve known this man for a long time, but setting parameters in a committed and exclusive relationship is a process of getting to know someone in a new way.

If his behavior continually triggers your own insecurity or jealousy, then you might need to retreat into the friend zone.

Dear Amy: “No-Brady Lady” wondered how to respond to the enthusiasm for football from her friends that she does not share.

I also live in an area that is super into football. I feel her pain. There is no getting away from it, no matter where you go.

Whenever people start trying to discuss football with me, I just look at them and say, "You'll have to give me a moment. I have to work up to caring."

It is generally well-received by those who know me, and is usually followed up with laughter.

– Who Cares?

Dear Who Cares?: I like it! Let’s get those T-shirts made.

========

(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.)