DEAR ABBY: I recently learned my neighbor shot and killed her two young kids (14 and 2) more than 20 years ago and served only half of her prison sentence – six years. The newspaper said she called the police herself, confessed and was arrested and incarcerated.
I have only known her for two years. She’s very reserved and keeps to herself. She seems paranoid, but she has warmed up to me because we both dabble in art. Since I’ve learned this information from the internet, I don’t know how to feel about her. This was a horrendous act, and I’m having a hard time processing. What are your thoughts? – PERPLEXED IN THE SOUTH
DEAR PERPLEXED: Why did you find it necessary to research your neighbor? Did someone suggest it, or do you do that with all of your neighbors? If what you discovered is true, there must be a good reason why she was freed after serving half her sentence. I think, because you have questions, the person you should ask is her.
DEAR ABBY: I have known my ex’s friend for more than 12 years. Long story short, we are now “friends with benefits.” When I stay over, he almost always portrays himself as a good catch, but when it’s time to act like one outside his home, he doesn’t. He says, “Dating is too hard,” and “We should take it one day at a time.” He constantly tells me I will make someone a good wife and that I should have no problem finding someone. Must I just enjoy the best benefits I have ever had, or should I move on? – CONFLICTED IN MASSACHUSETTS
DEAR CONFLICTED: Much depends upon what you really want. If what you want is a husband, children and a future, you should take this man’s advice and find someone other than him. If it’s great sex and nothing more, you must decide whether you want to stick around for the wild ride. No one can decide that for you.