DEAR ABBY: My father started molesting me when I was 13. Other family members and friends (both male and female) also molested me during and after the time my father molested me. I have had no contact with any of these people in more than 20 years -- especially my father.
Some of my family want me to reconcile with Dad, but I'm unwilling to do that right now. I was not his only victim. He was never punished in any way, and he has never apologized.
My counselor said that I might never reconcile with my father, which is fine with me. He has not been a part of my life for many years. I am comfortable with things the way they are, but some people just can't leave well enough alone. I could use some help with this decision. What do you think? -- RELUCTANT IN THE U.S.A.
DEAR RELUCTANT: You are paying good money to a therapist who has given you some excellent advice. My advice to you is to listen to your therapist and stop gathering opinions from others. Your reasons for avoiding your family are rock solid.