Short Answers

By Jeff Johnson and Paula Forman 

HE’S 19, RIGHT?

Dear Short Answers:
My son, who is 19 years old, is convinced that he had the coronavirus and is now immune. He was pretty sick last month but never got tested. Now, he wants to use his free time to grocery shop for people, volunteer at the local food bank, and generally help out people who need it. I am so proud of him for wanting to do this but petrified that he is wrong and that he is putting himself in danger if he does this. How do I talk my child out of doing something so wonderful but dangerous?
Worried Mom

Dear Mom:
The obvious answer to your dilemma is for your son to get a test, no matter how invincible he believes himself to be. Anyone who is in contact with vulnerable populations needs to make certain that their good intentions do no harm. Sadly, this is easier said than done but perhaps your family physician can provide some guidance. 

DK IS NG

Dear Short Answers:
I am almost 60 and I find that I have started to forget things more and more. Nothing big — but it happens all the time. I am petrified to tell anybody. My aunt had Alzheimer’s and if I get it, I don’t know what I’ll do. Please help.
I forget…

Dear Forget:
You should consult a doctor. Most likely this is normal aging and you will be greatly reassured.

GOING TO THE CHAPEL OF LOVE

Dear Short Answers:
My nephew is getting married in Pittsburgh (hometown of his wife-to-be), which is a long haul for many of his relatives and other out of town guests. His wife-to-be has an enormous family in Pittsburgh. There are going to be 250 people at the wedding, most of them local. It is a black tie affair on a Saturday night in October (or whenever it’s “legal” and safe to hold such an affair). My sister will be throwing the rehearsal dinner and feels that it is important to include out of town guests as well as the bridal party. My nephew does not believe that out of town guests need to be included at the dinner on Friday night. Doing so would expand the list from about 35 to 50. So what do you think? If the mother of the groom is paying for the party and wants to include people who are traveling a distance to be there, should her wishes prevail? Is it the decision of the bride and groom after all is said and done?
Uncle in Boston

Dear Boston:
We think mom has the right idea. She’s trying to be inclusive and is putting her money on it as well. Kids should deal. 

BABY GROWS UP

Dear Short Answers:
My son is suddenly a young man. It happened in a flash. Even though he grows up, will he always be my baby?
M

Dear M:
No, he won’t be your baby. But if you play your cards well, you will enjoy a special relationship with a young man. 

HARD TO HEAR

Dear Short Answers:
If a guy says he wants to marry you and takes it back does that mean he doesn’t?
WHAT?

Dear What:
Yes. Sorry, it means he doesn’t.

Life is complicated.  Short Answers isn’t.

Send a question about whatever is bothering you to [email protected] or go to www.shortanswers.net and a psychologist and sociologist will answer.  A selection of the best questions will be printed every week in KonkLife. 

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