ArcaMax

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I frequently attend luncheons at which the entree consists of bagels, lox (smoked salmon) and cream cheese.

Bagels have grown in size substantially since my childhood. Nowadays, a whole bagel is too much for me, so I carefully take one half with the tongs provided. I spread it with cream cheese, then lay a slice or two of lox...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: Is a ride on a motorcycle a good idea for a first date? My date showed up carrying two helmets and wearing a leather jacket.

I had to put my arms around him so as not to fall off the bike, which was embarrassing. My date is otherwise very traditional. The ride was fun, although we didn't get a chance to talk.

GENTLE READER: ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I received a cancer diagnosis two months ago. Initially, I was quite open in discussing it with others when warranted -- for example, explaining to co-workers why I would be out on certain days. I had a lot of optimism and didn't feel I needed privacy, so I gave people carte blanche to ask questions.

Now I'm regretting the ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: How do I respond to some common shaming I get from people I know?

For background, I am a female member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and have many dear friends who are members of other marginalized communities. My rights and the rights of the people I love are important to me.

Some people I know openly support politicians who ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: Why is tipping expected? I was under the impression that it was up to the customer. In my state, servers are paid minimum wage, so it's not a question of being underpaid.

And why am I expected to supplement a stranger's income? If you're not making enough money, get a different job! I'm so disgusted by this begging that I don...Read more