Dear Abby: I made mistakes with finances, and now my wife wants to end our marriage
A man facing an unwanted divorce says his wife lost trust in him after business and financial mistakes. After they planned to move and start over, she moved first, met other men and ended the relationship.
Liam Carter 
Dear Abby tackles two heavy situations this week, addressing a marriage shattered by financial instability and a devastating gambling addiction that has left a long-term couple in financial ruin.
A Marriage Ends Over Financial Trust
A husband reaching out to Abby describes a painful divorce after eight years of marriage. He admits that his previous business and financial mistakes permanently fractured his wife's trust. The couple had initially planned to move and make a fresh start, but the wife relocated first, began seeing other men, and ended the relationship upon his arrival. While the writer struggles with anger and a desire to heal, he notes that his wife refuses to discuss the matter.
Abby advises the writer that he cannot force his wife to reconcile. She urges him to consult an attorney to navigate the legal separation, emphasizing the immediate need to address financial support for their three children. She also suggests seeking a mental health professional to help manage his anger and focus on his personal path forward.
The Consequences of Gambling Addiction
In a second letter, a woman in her 80s shares the heartbreaking reality of her husband's secret addiction to slot machines, which resulted in the loss of $600,000—their entire life savings. The couple is now bankrupt and relies on their son, who manages their pensions and land as a trustee. The wife expresses deep frustration over her limited lifestyle, noting that she and her husband are essentially confined to their home due to the small allowance provided by their son.
Abby encourages the wife to have an open conversation with her son to determine if the strict budget is a financial necessity or a form of punishment toward his father. Abby suggests advocating for a slightly more flexible arrangement so the mother is not unfairly penalized for her husband's past actions.
Read more Dear Abby and other advice columns on 205focus.com.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
