Life Advice
/Health
Friend No Longer Wants To Host
DEAR MISS MANNERS: My partner and I went on a short vacation to a city where an old friend of mine lives. I called her months ago, asking to stay with her and her partner for one night, but she said she didn't have room.
I have known this woman for 45 years and have stayed with her at least 20 times in the past. Still, not a problem -- we ...Read more
Formal Clothing 'just Not Us'
DEAR MISS MANNERS: We have been invited to the wedding of a very good friend's son. When I went online to RSVP, it said, "Attire: evening cocktail -- slacks, cocktail dresses, jackets, etc."
We never wear that kind of clothing, even to funerals. We always look nice, though! We don't want to spend money on clothing that we will never wear again,...Read more
Did I Have The 'right' To Attend This Funeral?
DEAR MISS MANNERS: About 25 years ago, I was in a "moms of preschoolers" group. I knew some women better than others, but I considered all of them part of my larger friend group.
As our kids grew up, we stayed somewhat in touch, forming smaller groups, but those broke up during the pandemic. I haven't seen most of these women since 2020.
One ...Read more
Play Nice At Son's Wedding, Mom
DEAR MISS MANNERS: My daughter married a wonderful man, and I happily support their union. My son, however, is about to marry a young lady whom I really can't stand.
She tells my son wicked, untrue things about me, and almost alienated him from me. She insists that I treat him like a child instead of a grown man, which I can assure you I do not...Read more
Family Bigot Is 'otherwise A Charming And Enjoyable Person'
DEAR MISS MANNERS: My brother is intelligent, educated, well-spoken and has a responsible job. He is also openly racist, misogynistic and homophobic -- all for religious reasons, of course.
To his credit, he never brings these subjects up, but if they do come up, he's not at all bashful about articulating his bigoted views. His response to ...Read more