DEAR ABBY: Less than a year ago, my 28-year-old son, "David," married his college sweetheart, "Ann." She's a wonderful girl. They bought a home near her job in the Midwest.
David sometimes goes out of state on temporary jobs. He called me a month ago, while on a job in a resort area, and told me he has met someone and wants out of his marriage. He said Ann has been great, they never argue, etc., but he was pressured into the marriage and doesn't really know where his life is going.
Ann has called me several times in tears. She said she will give him time, but she is almost ready to give up. I am heartbroken. I think my son is making a terrible mistake, as Ann truly loves him and will do anything for him. I love her like a daughter.
I have spoken to David and told him what I think, but I don't know what else to do. There is no good reason for this breakup. How can I help him not to go ahead with this? -- VERY SAD MOM IN MARYLAND
DEAR MOM: You can't prevent your son from leaving the marriage. However, you would do him and Ann a favor to suggest that when his business in the resort area is finished, they seek marriage counseling. David may want out because he met someone or, as he said, he didn't really want to be married in the first place. If there's an upside to this, it's that they didn't have children.
While the situation is sad and you love your daughter-in-law, do not allow yourself to be put in the middle or you will alienate your son. If the marriage doesn't work out, you can still have a relationship with her, although it won't be the one you planned on.