DEAR HARRIETTE: I recently married my wife, and her teenage son does not seem to like me at all. I believe it is because of the major changes my presence has brought into his life. His dad passed away a few years ago, and I know my arrival has disrupted the dynamics he had with his mom. I've tried to connect and bond with him, attempting to show support and care, but it seems he's resistant and distant.
ASK THE DOCTORS
By their words the world knows them. One word: Nuts! (Gen.
Today is the 319th day of 2023 and the 54th day of autumn.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I am a 50-yearold American resident, and my parents, who are around 80, live in Ethiopia. My two siblings and I have all been out of the country since our college days, and I am starting to realize how sad it is that I haven't been able to see my parents face to face very much since I was 18. We are beginning to understand the significance of our physical absence and the impact it has had on our parents' emotional and physical health. We enjoy our regular phone calls and occasional video chats, but we recognize the limitations of these interactions in truly understanding their needs and providing the support and care they may require. How can we provide them with the support, care and presence they need during this crucial stage of their lives and maintain a strong relationship to avoid regrets once they pass on? — Disconnected DEAR DISCONNECTED: Often in families with multiple children, one adult child takes on the responsibility of looking out for the elders, particularly parents. This is common worldwide. While you and your siblings are thousands of miles away from your parents, nobody has taken on that role. You should talk together and figure out a way forward that allows for someone to spend physical time with your parents.
It's important to have a good coffee cup.
The biggest threat to Joe Biden's reelection is not defection, it's discouragement.
DEAR HARRIETTE: Since August, I have committed myself to peace and happiness. Unfortunately, since doing this, every trial and trouble has been presented at my doorstep. What are the best ways to handle tribulations while trying to remain in a positive and serene place mentally and emotionally? Any advice will be helpful. — Searching for Happiness DEAR SEARCHING FOR HAPPINESS: I believe there is a Bible verse that says that the closer you get to being in union with God, the more obstacles will come before you. To live in a constant state of peace takes a tremendous amount of discipline, focus and work. You have to be vigilant. So much of it is about attitude. When bad things happen, how do you react to them? Practice observing what's come into your life without responding right away. Stand back. Notice the person, situation or impediment that has shown up. Consider what it is, why it may be there and what lesson you can learn from it, then take action. Often, the best response is no response. You can see whatever is before you for what it is, recognize that it is out of your control or not necessary to address and move on. Sometimes you will have to deal with it. Then look for a way to handle the moment and leave honor on all sides of it. Backing yourself or someone else into a corner can be dangerous and unnecessary, especially if your goal is peace. Take each situation one step at a time.
Dear Doctors: I have been told I have a stage 2 rectocele and that there are two ways to approach treating it.
• ABC baby quilts had been prepared by Family and Community Education clubs (formerly extension homemakers clubs) in Custer County which would be delivered to Oklahoma City hospitals for use with AIDS and drugaddicted babies. In all, the club members had prepared 30 of the quilts as part of National FCE Week.