DEAR ABBY: A few years ago, my daughter went “no contact” with both sides of our family — grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles, as well as cousins. Since then, I have been struggling with how I should answer acquaintances who ask, “How is she doing?” as well as those who ask, “Do you have children?”
I have been told by friends and family that I should tell the acquaintances that I don’t know why because she doesn’t speak to the family. However, I have found this response leads to more uncomfortable questions. I am embarrassed to have to tell people “Yes, but she does not speak to us” — and worse, try to answer “Why?” Lately, I have been telling people, “No, we don’t have children” so I won’t have to explain.
Can you advise me how I can answer these questions without explanations, embarrassment or lies? — FORMER PARENT IN WASHINGTON
DEAR FORMER PARENT: As a matter of fact, I can. Tell the questioner, “I have one daughter. We are estranged, and I don’t wish to discuss it further.” Period. It’s the truth.
DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend and I have had a tumultuous relationship. Right now, it’s good, but the issue I’m having is that his bed is super uncomfortable and so is his couch. He spent a lot of money for both of them, but I am unable to sleep or get comfortable on his couch. How do I tell him he needs to replace them or else I don’t want to spend the night with him or watch movies on the couch at his house? — UNCOMFORTABLE IN TEXAS