DEAR MISS MANNERS: While separating photographs after a divorce from my wife, I have run across some pictures of relatives’ and friends’ weddings. Is there any protocol for what to do with the photos?
In some cases, the marriages have broken up, so I assume that I can just dispose of these photos, correct? I will send my ex-wife any photos containing her and her family, but nothing that includes photos of my family.
Is this the right way to go? We don’t live in the same area anymore and our families were never close.
I would also be interested to hear what you think should be done with family photos that include me, my ex-wife and our children. Should they just go to the children? I am in a new, committed relationship, and I do not wish to have any photos of my ex for any reason.
GENTLE READER: Old, unwanted photographs should go to any pertinent parties who would welcome them -- and with whom giving them away would not start a fight or reopen hurt feelings.
Your methods are fine. Ask your ex-wife and children if they would like their pictures. No explanation necessary -- it will be obvious why -- or just say that you were going through old things. And ask old friends and relatives with whom you are close if they would like theirs.
Tidying up one’s home and not offending its members are two worthwhile pursuits. Miss Manners just urges you to be cautious that you are not offending any extended members in the process.
(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)