DEAR ABBY: A few years ago, my two BFFs had milestone birthdays within a few weeks of each other. Wanting to do something special, I splurged for a weekend in Vegas for the three of us. I bought first-class plane tickets, high-end hotel rooms, spa appointments, the best seats at a show, and paid for all our meals -- including dinner at an expensive steak house. While I could afford it, the weekend cost me several thousand dollars.
Fast-forward a couple of years to my milestone birthday. One of them sent me a card, and they split the tab for my lunch at a fast-food restaurant. There were promises of something more special to come. While I didn't expect the extravagant experience I gave them (our financial situations are different), I thought they might plan lunch or dinner at a nice restaurant. Since then, nothing more has been said or done.
This was a couple of years ago, and I still can't let go of my hurt and disappointment. We've been friends for more than 20 years, but I'm thinking of ending the relationships. Every time I see them, I wonder if our friendship is one-sided. How can I get past this? -- DISAPPOINTED IN DALLAS
DEAR DISAPPOINTED: Your mistake was going over the top with their birthday splurges. When you do something nice for someone, you shouldn't expect reciprocation. Concentrate on the positive aspects of your relationship with them, and let the rest go.