DEAR ABBY: The letter from "Concerned Dad in Batavia, Ill.," whose wife was verbally abusing their son, prompts this letter.
I am now 43 and my mother has been dead for eight years, but I can still hear her calling me "four-eyes" because I had to wear glasses. She told me I was no good and would never amount to anything.
My mother's harsh words and physical battering left my brother and me guilt-ridden and traumatized. I became an introvert and never married because I never felt good enough for anyone. My brother, an extrovert, is on his fourth marriage. Neither of us has children. Only recently have I gained enough confidence to speak up in public.
My father, a fine man, saw it all and never said a word. Although I love him, a part of me hates him for it. Since becoming an adult, I try not to blame anyone, but I always felt Dad should have stepped in when I was younger.
Please tell "Concerned Dad" that if he doesn't intervene, his son could be messed up for life. -- C.J. FROM N.J.
DEAR C.J.: Although I urged "Concerned Dad" to intervene on his son's behalf and to seek counseling for both his wife and their son, I hope he also reads your letter. Hearing firsthand from an adult who is still suffering from the effects of verbal abuse should have more impact than any advice I can offer.