DEAR ABBY: I am a single 30-year-old female who is child-free. I never wanted kids.
I share an office with “Elise.” Over the years, she has made remarks such as, “You have no right to be tired. You don’t have kids!” or “You don’t count because you don’t have kids!” or “You’re not a real adult because you don’t have the responsibility of having kids” (my favorite).
What do I say to counter her remarks? I’m sick to death of people like her who have children saying those things about people like me. – FREE FOREVER
DEAR FREE: Your co-worker appears to be voicing her frustrations about the responsibilities of parenthood and somewhat jealous that you are free of them. The next time she hurts your feelings, it would not be overreacting to tell her that she has and ask her for an apology.
If she’s doing it hoping to get a rise out of you, ignore her. But if it persists, as a last resort, talk to your boss or human resources about it because she’s creating a hostile work environment. She should be talking with you about work, not her personal opinions about you.