DEAR ABBY: I was married less than two months ago. My husband, parents and I paid for everything. We had a tight budget, so my bridesmaids paid for their own dresses and hairstyles. My friend "Misty" was in the wedding. She was paired to walk down the aisle with one of my husband's best friends, "Stu." Misty and Stu hit it off, and as a result, they are being married in the fall.
My husband and I have not been asked to be in their wedding. We are very disappointed since we were the matchmakers.
Misty has now asked to borrow the very expensive crinoline that I bought and wore under my wedding dress. She claims her budget is tight and she can't afford one. The truth is, she's having a much larger wedding than mine, with all the extras I couldn't afford.
I want to tell Misty that she can't borrow my crinoline, but I feel pressured to come up with a good excuse. What do you think, Abby? Do you think I'm being selfish? -- NEW BRIDE IN NEW ENGLAND
DEAR NEW BRIDE: I understand you are hurt not to be in the wedding, but take the high road. Lend her your crinoline. The chances of your wearing it again are slim, unless there's a drastic change in fashion trends. When you get it back, it will be twice blessed, and you will be a bigger person for having lent it.