DEAR ABBY: After years of enduring overdraft charges and dodging bill collectors, I have finally gotten my financial house in order. I pay all of my bills, and I pay them on time. However, I have very little money left over at the end of the week.
Many of my friends have two-income households or use credit cards when they go out to eat or to the movies, which is often. I want them to know that because I decline their invitations does not mean I'm anti-social -- I just can't afford it. I have said so at times, but I hate to be a broken record.
Friends: Please know that I appreciate being invited, but don't be offended when I am unable to join you. -- ON TRACK BUT STILL BROKE IN MAINE
DEAR ON TRACK: I congratulate you for straightening out your finances. It's not always easy to do, and breaking ingrained habits can be a challenge.
The next step in your "recovery" is to keep reminding your free-spending friends that while you'd like to join them, you are not always able to do so. If you repeat it often enough, eventually they will get the message. It would be better if they hear it directly from you rather than read it in my column.