DEAR ABBY: My best friend from childhood, "Ethan," whom I have known for 25 years, is being married. I'm a girl, and my parents weren't thrilled that my best friend was a guy, but they eventually accepted him as part of the family.
Ethan and I were very close. It hurt that we were separated by quite a distance during college and afterward. But we have always maintained an active e-mail correspondence.
During the last two years I have hardly heard from him, and he has ignored several attempts I have made at getting together. We now live only a couple of hours apart, and I often visit his city to see relatives.
I thought maybe we had just grown apart, but two weeks ago I received an invitation to Ethan's wedding. I had no idea he was even engaged! I was thrilled to hear from him and happy for him. I e-mailed him three times but received no response. Instead, Ethan's brother responded.
Is it expecting too much for him to respond personally? I miss him terribly and I'd love to go, but I'm feeling like he doesn't care. I met Ethan's girlfriend years ago, and she was very sweet. I don't think jealously plays a part in this. -- MISSING MY FRIEND
DEAR MISSING: Time and distance can sometimes change some people. It shouldn't be this difficult to maintain a friendship. The reason Ethan communicated with you through his brother instead of directly is because he wanted a buffer -- but it sends a message.
If I were you, I would send my regrets to the wedding invitation and move on. I'm sorry to be the bearer of sad tidings, but from where I sit, it appears your childhood friendship has run its course.