Advice Column: Dear Rose,

Dear Rose, I am active in the Single Action Shooting Society here in East Tennessee. We have a lot of fun and are a lot like family. When ever anyone new comes in we make sure that he does not ride alone and that someone shows him the ropes. My problem is that my neighbor thinks all guns are a symbol of violence and acts like I am a bad guy for getting involved with guns. The organization has not had one accident in over twenty years, and no one can shoot unless they have attended a safety meeting at an event. Why do people make such a big deal over guns? More good people than bad people own them. Shooting Sam Dear Shooting, Well, partner, it shore does sound like your club is a heap o’ fun. Shoot, as long as you are practicing safety laws, and kindness, it should not be an issue. The exception is where the neighbor is an extremely sensitive soul. It is sometimes difficult for them to see a whole picture. There are weeds in the garden, but they must not be taken up with the weeds. Guns are used for violent purposes, but more often for protective purposes. Be as friendly as you can, maybe once they see how it is they will come around. Dear Rose, My son is married to a woman I will call Marge. I have been very good to Marge, I have given her family heirlooms and have tried to treat her like a daughter. The problem is that she always has her family over and not ours. She has cook-outs and dinners and they are all invited, but not us. It is not fair that she only has us over occasionally, but her family goes over several times a week. My son doesn’t say a word, he just lets her have her way. Miffed mother in law Dear Miffed, Many young women are insecure around their in-laws. They feel awkward. Perhaps you can remember a similar feeling with your own mother-in-law when you were younger. The following is something I try to use with my own daughter-in-laws: The Ten Commandments for A Mother-In-Law Thou shalt love, honor, and respect the new couple. Thou shalt allow them complete independence. Thou shalt speak only kindly and loyally about them. Thou shalt not find fault. Thou shalt not visit them too frequently, and never enter their home without knocking. Thou shalt not expect them to visit you too often. Thou shalt not give advice unless requested. Thou shalt not mention how much you look forward to grandchildren. Thou shalt respect their taste in home decorating, though it differs from your own. Thou shalt petition daily the Heavenly Father, in whose love they abide, for their happiness. Iola M. Irwin Humor for the day: If Murphy’s law can go wrong, it will. If you have any questions that you would like to ask, “Dear Rose” please write to The Herald Newspapers, 500 Maryville Hwy, Seymour, TN 37865 or email at askrose@theheraldnewspapers.com.