DNA discoveries bring forward tough truths

Dear Amy: My husband and I recently had our DNA tested.

We knew people can uncover unexpected relationships, but I wish we had thought about how to cope with this before we took our tests.

Amy, both of us have discovered that we have half-siblings.

My father had two children with another woman while I was in junior high.

My husband’s father had a child with a close family friend while his mother was pregnant with him.

Both of us are trying to understand this without the ability to ask our fathers (deceased), and without any deep understanding of what was happening at the time.

The last thing we want to do is ask our mothers, who are quite elderly.

My question to you is — should we tell our siblings? They may want to know, but we are not sure.

What to do?

— Bewildered

Dear Bewildered:

You might rehearse different ways to start this conversation: “Warren and I recently had our DNA tested, and we were both handed some extremely surprising and upsetting information regarding our families. Frankly, this was information I didn’t want or expect, but now that I know it, I believe you have the right to know it, too — if you want. I just want to prepare you in case you plan to have your DNA tested. If you want to discuss this with me instead, I’m certainly willing to do that. If you would rather not discuss it, that’s OK, too.”

After that, try not to attach to any particular or specific response, including the possibility of a sibling blaming you for bringing this to their attention. Undoubtedly, that same sibling would also blame you for keeping it to yourself.

Dear Amy: A very dear friend of mine is dating a man who is racist, phony, full of himself, selfish and has publicly humiliated her in the past.

He nearly killed a few of his and her family members by being reckless with COVID safety, too. These family members narrowly escaped, so now he thinks he’s in the clear and continues to be reckless. Needless to say, I can’t stand him.

My friend recently asked me in an email conversation if I like him.

This is a simple enough question, seemingly, but I have avoided answering since I’m not sure what to say.

I don’t want to lie, but I also know that honesty could cause a serious rift.

How should I respond to suit both my conscience and our friendship?

– On the Fence

Dear On the Fence: A judicious answer is called for. We do not live in judicious times, however, so let me try to provide a possible script: “I assume it’s obvious that I don’t agree with ‘Sean’ on some pretty basic matters. Most important to me, however, is how he treats you. In my opinion, he doesn’t always give you the respect I know you deserve, and I sometimes find that upsetting. The most important thing for you to know, however, is that I’ve got your back, no matter what.”

Dear Amy: I thought your answer to “Stoner — Trying to do Better” was good, but you missed an important point. This guy has obviously been self-medicating for his extreme mood swings. He should have a mental health screening.

– Former Stoner

Dear Former: I addressed the fact that as his pot use decreased, his underlying issues were emerging. Yes, I agree that he should get a thorough screening.