Ask Polly

Ask Polly

Holiday Presence

How to feel good among chaotic, anxious parents, siblings, spouses, children, and friends.

Heather Havrilesky
Dec 24, 2024
∙ Paid
The Truth About Comets (1945) by Dorothea Tanning

This morning I threw away a box of pens with my father’s name engraved on them. Then I watched this clip of adults having difficult conversations with their parents. It made me wonder what kind of a relationship I’d have with my dad if he were still alive. My mom and I talk about everything, but we’re ext…

User's avatar

Continue reading this post for free, courtesy of Heather Havrilesky.

Or purchase a paid subscription.
© 2026 Heather Havrilesky · Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start your SubstackGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture