My brother and I are in our late 20s and in excellent health. While I do agree that Mom’s advice is prudent, I have the impression that she views this issue — and our family
— through the lens of her negative work experiences. Is there an appropriate time and place to discuss this matter?
— LOOKING WAY AHEAD IN CHICAGO
DEAR LOOKING: Absolutely. How about tonight at the dinner table? The time to have these discussions — and put your thoughts in writing — is while you are healthy and thinking clearly. While I agree that what may be driving your mother are things she sees at work every day, the reality is that illness and tragedy can strike people of all ages at any time.
It’s important that family members hear what a person wants — or doesn’t want — should a situation arise in which that person is unable to speak for him- or herself. And it’s equally important for you and your brother to hear what your mother’s wishes are if you don’t already know.
DEAR ABBY: I am a 70-year-old senior who is sexually dysfunctional. I am so lonely. I have outlived two of my brides. Do you think I could find someone who would just appreciate holding hands and whispering sweet words without the physical contact?
— YOUNG AT HEART IN TEXAS
DEAR YOUNG: Not only do I think you can, I suspect you may need police protection to control the crowd of applicants. Years ago, my aunt, the late Ann Landers, polled her female readers asking if they would prefer “holding and cuddling” to actually doing “the deed.” The majority of them answered in the affirmative. Write Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com
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