MIL excludes son from holiday dinners

Dear Annie: A few years ago, there was an argument in my husband’s family. Since then, my mother-in-law has stopped having holiday dinners. She invites only one daughter and her family.

This hurts my husband, but he will not say anything to his mother. We feel she should invite everyone as usual, and those who wish to participate will come, and those who don’t will stay away. Why punish everyone because a few have decided to carry a grudge?

Should my husband say something to his mother, or just leave it alone? – No More Holidays

Dear No More: If your husband prefers not to speak to his mother about this, then please let it go. But we have a different idea. Why not host a family gathering in your home? You can then invite whomever you choose, and Mom can either come or not come. Perhaps that is what she’s been waiting for.

Dear Annie: I read the letter from “Indy,” who lost her job and feels lonely. Please tell her to volunteer for hospice.

Three years ago, I lost my husband to cancer. I was all alone. I attended a local hospice grief-counseling group, and three years later, all nine of us still meet once a month for dinner. We are connected and understand each other.

Hospice always needs more volunteers. You don’t have to have had a loss – just a passion for people. Our hospice has 300 volunteers. Nursing homes have folks who never have visitors. Now, I have a real purpose. I can serve others, no money needed – just time and a desire. Please get involved. – Donna