JUST JEANNETTE

Originally appearing in Charlton's Sweethearts comics issue #93 in 1967.

We have asked Jeannette Copeland to write a special column for this publication. It will consist of answers to those of you who have problems. And in this day and age, who hasn't a situation that bothers him? We have selected Jeannette Copeland because of her broad experience and knowledge of today's youth. She can talk your language and understands what you have to contend with as you face the harsh realities of life that require sound thinking and control of your emotions. So, if you have something on your mind, write her a letter. State your situation briefly. There will be no personal replies. But from your letters will be chosen one to be answered in the column of every issue of this publication.

Dear Jeannette Copeland:

I think I am going to have a problem on my hands, so I am writing to see how you can help me. I graduated from high school two years ago and started to work in a department store. I have had three promotions in that time, each with a raise in salary. And I have been told I have a future if I stay with this store. They even paid my tuition so I could take a course in merchandising at our community college.

I met a very nice young man who also works in the store. It started the day he sat down to eat at my table in the store's cafeteria. He called on me twice a week, and I know how deeply we are in love with each other. He came up to my home several times and met my parents. They like him. Then I went up to his home and met his parents, and they liked me. So this should mean everything is fine—because he asked me to marry him and I, of course, accepted.

Then our parents met for the first time, and that is where the trouble began. We are of the same religious faith. But his parents are of an entirely different background from that of my folks, And I could easily sense something strained in the air at that meeting. Now, what happens if the in-laws don't get on together? Does that mean that Jack and I get caught in the middle? How do we handle the problem? I told Jack I was going to write this letter and he said to go ahead. So please help us:

Sincerely yours,

Diana L.

Dear Diana L:

At one time, the situation you faced was a somewhat familiar one to a lot of people in love. And it still exists today. In my own city, you find a young girl with parents born here. They meet the parents of the young man who was born abroad—and have different ideas and another background. Or, you might find that both sets of parents were born here, but I hate to use this expression; they come from different social strata. But it does express clearly an idea.

How to handle the situation? First of all, you have to be sure that there is an undertone of antagonism. When future in-laws meet for the first time, there is definitely a strangeness in the air. So it might be this, and time will take care of the situation without your doing anything.

On the other hand, let us suppose there is some basic feeling you can't overcome, then what to do? Before you get upset, figure out how many times in a year the two sets of in laws will meet each other! At the wedding, of course—then when again? There may be some special occasions you want them at your home. If you notice the feeling does continue, then try this simple plan. Invite them over separately! As simple as that. You have your father and mother over to supper one evening. And another evening, have his parents over. And if you entertain those of your own group and age, you do it without any of the in-laws at the house.

Always bear in mind that morally and legally, you come first in his mind, heart, and actions, and he comes first in yours. This means never should either in-law come first!

Cordially yours,

Jeannette Copeland