DEAR HARRIETTE: One of my mother’s longtime friends is very ill. Well, in a way, all of the ones who are still living are not well. They are 80-plus years old and dealing with various ailments. But one of them used to be very close to me. I have not talked to her a lot in recent years, but when I learned that she is doing poorly, I thought I should be in touch. Do you think she will want to hear from me given that several years have passed since I last reached out to her? I don’t want to upset her. I want to offer my love at this time when she is not doing so well. -- Reaching Out, Atlanta
DEAR REACHING OUT: By all means, reach out to your mother’s friend right away. Do not apologize for the time lapse since you last spoke. Just start talking to her. Tell her that you have been thinking about her and wanted to say hello. Ask her how she is doing, but do not probe. Let her tell you whatever she wants to share. Be sure to tell her highlights about your life that will make her happy. Chances are, she will be happy to hear from you and thrilled to chat. The best follow-up for you will be to call her again soon. Being remembered when you are old is precious.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)