DEAR ABBY: My wife and I have a disagreement. No matter what we are doing, she's constantly checking her cellphone for texts or emails. Then she'll get into text conversations and talk to herself while I sit there wondering what's so funny. It happens a lot -- anytime, anywhere. Her cellphone is a constant companion and usually the center of attention.
Am I too sensitive in thinking that the phone should be put away sometimes when we're together? Or is this the world in which we now live? -- LIKE I'M NOT THERE IN RICHLAND, WASH.
DEAR LIKE YOU'RE NOT THERE: You are not being overly sensitive. Have you told your wife that you feel she's neglecting you because she pays more attention to her cellphone? If you haven't, you should. If she has any consideration for your feelings, she will turn it off for an agreed period of time so she can spend that time with you.
Marriages take work if they're going to last, and communication is crucial. If she refuses to listen to you, deliver the message via text or email, or with the help of a licensed marriage counselor.