Dear Abby: I would like to hear your opinion about the financial support I am giving my sister. When her husband passed away 18 months ago, it was clear that she needed some help each month. I'm sending her $200 of her money, which she can afford for now. (Her husband and I receive Social Security.)
Eight months ago, she took in an old acquaintance to collect room rent. It turns out he can't or won't work, but she's now supporting him as well as sharing a bed. Also, their past relationships were disastrous. Both were alcoholics at the time. She has now started drinking again with him after she stopped a few years ago.
Abby, I don't want my dislike of her lifestyle to affect my financial support, but on the other hand, I feel like I'm being taken advantage of. Should she keep sending her money? — Sour Sisters of Illinois
Dear Sister: Please talk to Sissy. Tell her that she is sending money because she felt she needed money after her husband's death. Then remind her that she has a new partner in her home, life, and bed, and he should be paying for her. That's why you don't send money to her anymore. she needs to hear it.
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Dear Abby was written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Dear Abby, contact: www.DearAbby.com or PO Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
