Digesting the headlines

From time to time we like to look at the headlines in newspapers from across the United States and try to come up with the hidden story that might fit them. Just this week there were a few that caught our attention.

The ultimate in social distancing

Some of us are obsessed right now with President Trump. Some are drawn to Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York. Others are preoccupied with Dr. Anthony Fauci. I can’t stop thinking about Jessica Meir and Andrew Morgan. Jessica Meir? Andrew Morgan?

A legal minefield for priests, flocks

Every now and then, while a priest is traveling or out running errands, a stranger will approach and ask: "Father, will you hear my confession?" This can happen on a city sidewalk or in a quiet corner of a big-box store.

OPINION

Grandfather has trouble with grandsons

DEAR ABBY: My husband has a contentious relationship with our grandchildren. He generally is a fun, happy and interesting person. But by nature he is not “hands on” when it comes to children. Our son and daughter have great spouses and five young grandsons.

Quitting sugar is challenge that requires awareness

Dear Doctor: I’m stalled on my resolution to quit eating sugar. Why is it so hard? I just can’t seem to stop saying yes to sweets, especially my favorites -- cookies and candy bars. Do you have any suggestions? Dear Reader: First of all, please don’t feel bad.

Man’s closeness to mother puts distance in relationship

DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend is 31 and still goes to his mother’s house and spends the night, even though we live less than 15 minutes away. He knows it upsets me, yet every time she asks him to spend the night, he goes.

Long-absent dad chooses friend over family

DEAR ABBY: My father has been mostly absent from my life. We reconnected when I was an adult. I have always had feelings of abandonment, and because of this, I have constantly tried to build a relationship with him and allow him to have one with his grandchildren.

Study links overtime to masked hypertension

Dear Doctor: I heard about a study that says working overtime gives you high blood pressure. My husband just joined a competitive company, and he’s expected to work a lot of extra hours. He’s already a Type A kind of guy, and I’m worried.

Revenge on cheater delivered on wedding day

DEAR ABBY: This is an open letter to all those women who write to you knowing their men cheated on them and then ask, “Should I marry him?” In their hearts they already know the answer; they just want YOU to tell them “NO!