Long Friendship Turns Sour When They Become Neighbors
Dear Abby 무료 듣기 - 영어 기사 리스닝 연습

Long Friendship Turns Sour When They Become Neighbors

Dear Abby | April 1st, 2024 | Letter 1 of 2

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been friends with another couple for many years. We would get together occasionally, and we mostly enjoyed their company. When the house across the street from ours became available, they bought it. Not long after they moved in, the wife began copying our interior and exterior design elements and one night stood in our kitchen and said, Well you know, everything's a competition. To say we were dismayed would be an understatement. My husband and I spent many years collecting vintage furniture and other items to create a distinctive home. It has been a labor of love. Six months ago, we installed a unique garage door, unlike anything in the neighborhood. Abby, within three months she installed the exact same one! Are we wrong to find it crass and disrespectful? We no longer want to spend time with them but don't want to completely sever the connection because they are neighbors, and we also have some mutual friends. Moving is not an option; this is our home. What should we do? -- FED UP IN OHIO.

DEAR FED UP: I understand why you are frosted and need to distance yourself. Who wants to be close to someone who considers everything to be a competition? Perhaps it will lessen your frustration to remember that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, while you learn to accept things you cannot change. Of course it is in your best interest to keep things cordial, but it might be better if you no longer invite this woman into your home.