DEAR ABBY: My husband, "Rick," and I separated two months ago because someone called my mother and told her Rick was cheating. I didn't question him about it; I simply packed his stuff and threw him out. Rick swears he has never cheated on me.
Since then, I have had many heated discussions with my mother because she won't quit digging for dirt on him. She has told everyone she knows about my marital problems.
Rick and I are seeing a counselor, and I need to know how to get my mother and the rest of my family to quit talking behind my back. I want what is best for me, but nobody will give me a chance to figure out what that is.
I still love Rick and I honestly don't know where my marriage stands. He and I argue frequently over my family's involvement. Please help. -- DESPERATE FOR PEACE IN INDIANA
DEAR DESPERATE: I'll try, but you're already getting too much outside advice as it is. Marriage means forsaking all others, and that goes not only for your husband, but for you as well.
If you and Rick want to save your marriage, it's time to circle the wagons and fight to stay together. And that means listening only to the professional counselor.