Dilema - what to do?

[maxf]

My parents split up about 2 years ago and are moving in their own seperate directions (mostly) - I'm 28 and am very much of the mind that as long as they are happy they should do what they like. Mum is selling up the house she got as her settlement and is obviously having a big clearout.

Lots of 'junk' is being earmarked for disposal and last night I had a nose through. I found a diary she wrote in 1979 when I was 2! I read a couple of pages and lots of it seems to be about me - being little and stuff - calling ducks elephants etc...

Now it seems this is being binned - should I save it? Should I do it without her knowing, or ask her if she is sure? Should I even read it - it felt wrong doing so last night, but was also interesting being largely about me?

Not sure what I think about it all - but once it's gone it has gone for good. Any PH views?

[JagLover]

Don't read someones private diary

Take it to her and ask her.

[vixpy1]

don't read it. give it to her and say you founf it, but don't mention you read it!

[JustTheTip]

I agree - it's hers to be shot of if she choses. How would you feel if the shoe was on the other foot?

[Lois]

Definately don't just take it. Diaries are ways for people to deal with things and may not show the accurate truth...you never know whats been said in it.

If you are interested then say you found it and wondered if she'd mind you having a nosey to see what you were like.

[lotuslad]

It's a tough one. I'd keep it but not read it. In the distant future you may be glad you kept something so personal.

It just seems wrong to throw out something like a diary. However she probably wants to start her new life with a clean sheet.

[mechsympathy]

I'd show it to her, and ask if she minds you having a look. If she doesn't then have a remnisce with her, if she does then maybe leave it out for her to find later.

She might like to be reminded of times she and your dad were happier (hopefully).

[soir]

You can't read your mums diary!! what if something personal pops up regarding her relationship with your father?

Just tell her you found it, you've not looked inside but her your are...

[maxf]

Yeah, point taken.

It looked like an empty '1979' diary, I saw some writing and had a read - but stopped when it was apparent that it wasn't simply about her lovely, intelligent, witty 2 year old boy.

I'm probably best off staying out of it... sleeping dogs and all that. It was just wierd seeing stuff written about me, before I can remember stuff.

[maxf]

soir said:

You can't read your mums diary!! what if something personal pops up regarding her relationship with your father?

Thats the big thing really isn't it - that would scar me for life!

[soir]

yes it is the big thing, just didnt want to be crude to you fella.

best to stay clear (not that I've experienced anything similar!!)