DEAR ABBY: My husband was married before for 20 years. We have been married for 30 years. We get along great, except lately he has been bringing out his jewelry from his previous marriage. The items consist of a wedding ring, watch, etc.
He doesn't hide them. He shows them off to me. When I tell him how much this hurts me, he says they will be worth something in cash someday. If I bring a piece of jewelry out that I would like him to wear, he runs and gets a piece that his ex gave him, places them side by side and compares them!
I'm so mad I have stopped speaking to him, which makes him very upset and sometimes he cries. Please give us your advice. -- SILENT AND STEAMING IN VIRGINIA
DEAR SILENT AND STEAMING: Unlike you, your husband obviously isn't sentimental about jewelry. If he likes it, he likes it, and he doesn't care where it came from. This would explain why he compares the items side by side, which is insensitive.
You need to discuss this with him at a time when you're not upset. Giving someone the silent treatment is not an effective way to communicate, nor is it a healthy way to solve problems.
The next time your husband says that "one day that jewelry will be worth something," ask him if he means after he dies or you do -- and suggest that now may be the time for him to sell it.