Dear Abby: I left my wife over her judgmental religious beliefs then she turned my kids against me

DEAR ABBY: After nearly 18 years of marriage, I left my wife.Our daughters were 10 and 12.

We had married quickly, and only later did I realize how deeply judgmental her “born-again” beliefs were — so much so that she gradually cut off my entire side of the family.I tried for years to reason with her, to no avail, and we divorced.

What I never anticipated was losing my children as well.In the years that followed, I sent cards, letters and messages — most went unanswered.I was told, “The girls don’t want to see you,” yet I was never given the chance to hear that directly from them.

Over time, I came to realize I was a victim of parental alienation — something I never would have imagined from someone who professed strong Christian values.More than 35 years have passed since I left that marriage, and I have had no meaningful contact with my daughters since.I am not without fault, and I own my mistakes, but the pain of lost years — and lost connection — remains.

I write for others who may see themselves here: Please don’t let years pass in silence.Talk.

Listen.Apologize.

Seek understanding before distance becomes permanent.— MR.

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DEAR MR.KALAMAZOO: You have my sympathy for the years of pain and separation you’ve endured.

Your story shows the importance of seeking partial custody or visitation rights as part of a divorce settlement.Your ex-wife would have had a much harder time cutting you off from your daughters if you’d had a court-mandated right to spend time with them.

What’s done is done.You must allow yourself to accept it and live your life.DEAR ABBY: I am feeling uncomfortable with what has become a steady stream of requests on social media for charitable contributions on friends...