Dear Abby advises a man who is frustrated that his parents keep declining his offer to have dinner at his home, despite making time for other family members because they have families of their own.
I am 40 and single, with no children and no girlfriend. For many years, it has become increasingly difficult to get my parents to come to my home for dinner. They live only 45 minutes away. Both are retired and healthy. As anyone who knows me can attest, my home is always clean, smells great and I love to cook.
Abby, it’s a miracle and an act of God when they finally agree to a date and time to visit. I invite them for dinner at least three times a week (because they decline the first or second time), and it’s months before they actually accept. It appears they just don’t have the desire and it’s hurtful. I have spoken to them about this, but it has gone nowhere.
Two weeks ago, they finally agreed to come after a month or two. I was happy and excited, only to have them cancel midday. They seem to have no issue picking up one or both of my nieces once or twice a week, going to yoga, attending concerts or festivities, coming into the city twice a week, taking trips, etc.
