THINGS I WISH MY KIDS WOULD ASK ME
Editor’s note: Barry Courter has a 22-year-old son who recently graduated from college and a 17-year-old daughter who is a senior in high school.
Q: Dad, someone who is close to me said something hurtful the other day, and I’m not sure they even know, or care, that it bothers me. What should I do?
A: You can ignore it and move on, which will likely cause you more grief, or you can talk to them about it. I always think it’s best to deal with it as soon as possible. Dealing with it quickly prevents hurt feelings from growing so deep and strong they are harder to get over. Approach the person in a calm, mature way and talk it out. Try to explain your feelings. You’ll both likely be better off for having had the conversation.
— By Barry Courter