DEAR ABBY: I am the mother of three grown children. I have a good marriage, a successful career and a close relationship with my two younger children.
My problem involves my oldest daughter. She has been emotionally unstable and verbally abusive to me since her 20s. I have reached my limit of patience with her. We had a terrible fight three weeks ago, and she hasn't spoken to me since.
Abby, these have been the most peaceful weeks I have had in a long time. Am I a terrible mother? Is there such a thing as separating from a child? I am tired of always being the peacemaker with no effort on her part. What do you suggest? -- PEACEMAKER IN KENTUCKY
DEAR PEACEMAKER: Refusing to be abused by an adult child does not make you a terrible parent. I don't know what caused the fight between you and your daughter. If you caused it, then you owe it to both of you to offer an apology. If she caused it, then put your white flag away and enjoy the respite because sooner or later she'll be back. (Probably when she needs something.) Only she can fix what's wrong with her, but you can reduce your level of stress if you keep your distance.