DEAR ABBY: I have eight siblings. I am the only one who is still single. My brothers and sisters are upstanding members of their communities, happily married and raising beautiful families.
Until a few years ago, we all got together for the holidays. Now that the children are here -- 20 at last count -- my sibs prefer to spend the holidays in their own homes with their families. We get together a couple of weeks before Christmas to exchange gifts.
I know that each of my brothers and sisters thinks I'm having Christmas dinner with another family member, but in reality I'm not invited anywhere, so I spend the day alone. I'd love to spend the day with family, and I'm hoping they will see this letter and think of me. -- ALL ALONE IN MARYLAND
DEAR ALL ALONE: And what if they happen to be too busy to read the column today? Your siblings aren't mind readers, so tell them what you told me. And if an invitation isn't forthcoming, make plans for the Christmas holiday with close friends or volunteer at a shelter. The greatest joy is in giving to others. You do not have to sit alone.