Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/515937
DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman PHOEBEANDHERUNICORN DanaSimpson ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»Eversince my fiance proposed to me, my mother has let it be known that if she had it her way, I wouldn't be marrying him. We both work in the non- profit field. We will not be wealthy, but I feel that we will be able to have a financially stable life. My mother, however, worries about me marrying him. My par- ents have been adamant about what they want for our wedding, and have never prioritized what my fiance wants, or respected our wishes. Unfortunate- ly, I haven't stood up for my fiance. My fiance has stopped talking to my parents. He tells me that I should threaten to cut off rela- tions with them unless they apologize and become much kinder to him. My mother is very controlling, unsympa- thetic and unkind. How can I gain cour- age to stand up for myself when I am basically afraid of her? Is my fiance being too hard on me by telling me that I should stop talking to my parents, when I am an only child? I don't know how to fix this situation. —Scared DEAR SCARED » Do not switch your controlling parents for a control- ling husband. Given how frightened you are of your mother, you are vulner- able. Do not turn yourself over to someone else's firm grip. You should consider postponing the wedding to give yourself time and to sort out these compet- ing relationships. You might choose an inex- pensive elopement that you can plan and finance yourselves. If your fiance must have an apology in order to start over, HE (not you) should commu- nicate this. Given the dynamic in your family, you two should approach this as a team. Write down what you want to express and sit down together with your folks in an effort to clear the air. Threats don't work unless there are clear consequences attached. The basic message to your mother should be, "We would like to have a better relationship with you, but we are adults and need to make our own decisions." It is unlikely that your mother will cut you off — because you are her only child and she needs someone to control — but unless you can find a way to cope, less contact with her might be best for you. DEAR AMY » I believe that "Discouraged Wife" is in danger. Her hus- band's jealous behavior will only escalate. The signs are all there. She should prepare to leave, get a lawyer, do some- thing about finances and get help. Get the h—l out! — DM DEAR DM » I agree that this relationship present- ed red flags — I hope she pays attention. Woman needs courage to stand up to controlling mom You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@tribune.com and follow her on Twitter @askingamy. Amy Dickinson Ask Amy Sudoku Instructions:Theobjectistoplacethe numbers1to9intheemptysquaresso thateachrow,eachcolumnandeach 3x3boxcontainsthenumberonlyonce. AnswertoPreviousPuzzle CelebrityCipher ByLuisCampos Instructions:CelebrityCiphercryptogramsarecreatedfromquotationsbyfamouspeople, pastandpresent.Eachletterinthecipherstandsforanother. NEACrossword Gemini(May21-June20) — Change is in the air. You have critical choices ahead of you, so don't rush to make a move until you have your plans in place. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Choose your words carefully. Your emotions will surface, and a hasty retort issued in anger will lead to a rift between you and a friend or relative. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — You should delegate jobs in order to avoid being burdened with too many responsibilities. Offer guidance and step aside. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — This is a perfect day for love. Your instincts are right on the money, and your appeal has never been stronger. Your ad- mirers will be ready to help you achieve your goals. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Revealing too much will backfire on you. Diplomacy is key. Keep your secrets private, no matter who is asking. Protect your interests. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Spending quality time with loved ones will strengthen your bonds with them. Your creativity and magnetism will impress your allies and stymie any competition you encounter along the way. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Get involved. No one will listen to an armchair quarter- back. Once you engage yourself, you will have the knowledge and insight necessary to make or suggest changes. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Even though things are run- ning smoothly, everyone has ups and downs. If you are feeling anxious or unsure, take time to remember all of the good things in your life. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — You probably have too many irons in the fire. Edit your options and focus on those that will bring you the most satisfac- tion. Running around without a plan will get you nowhere. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — Romance is heating up. Shower someone special with personal attention and show your devotion. A dinner or trip will help keep you in harmony. If you are single, get out and look for love. Aries (March 21-April 19) — You are a kind and caring individual, so don't let a harm- less remark cause you concern. Some people enjoy criticizing others. Walk away. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Don't get drawn into a quarrel with someone who doesn't share your beliefs. It's doubtful that an argument will make a difference to either one of you in the end. Horoscope By Eugenia Last FRIDAY, MAY 22 | YOURDAILYBREAK | REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2015 4 B