DEAR ABBY: My buddy “Alma” has a handicapped parking allow. I by no means requested her why she has it. We usually go for lengthy walks, and she or he appears completely able-bodied. Alma did share with me as soon as that she acquired the tag after an accident left her with some intermittent long-term ache. She stated most days she doesn’t want the accessible parking and doesn’t use it, however that when her ache flares up, it’s useful to have the ability to make the most of a handicapped parking area.
Nonetheless, I’ve been with Alma in conditions the place there’s restricted parking and she or he suggests utilizing a handicapped area. I’m uncomfortable taking an area away from somebody who may have it, but additionally uncomfortable questioning whether or not Alma wants it or if it’s only for comfort. What’s the correct etiquette right here? — EMPATHETIC IN TEXAS
DEAR EMPATHETIC: The right etiquette could be to inform your buddy Alma (with a smile) that except she’s having ache that day, you would like to park somewhat farther away in a daily parking spot.
DEAR ABBY: I’ve a set of Chippendale-style eating chairs which might be greater than 100 years previous. They’re of sentimental worth to me as a result of I grew up with them. Just lately, at appreciable expense, I had them repaired and reupholstered. My husband’s son-in-law, “Isaac,” whom I like very a lot, weighs between 450 and 500 kilos. When the household is eating, he makes use of one of many chairs. They aren’t meant to carry such weight.
My husband and I agree that we should always purchase a heavy-duty chair that may accommodate Isaac’s weight. Nonetheless, I don’t know the right way to convey to Isaac that the brand new chair is for him with out inflicting offense or harm emotions. Do you have got a suggestion? — TREADING LIGHTLY
DEAR TREADING: Your husband ought to clarify the potential drawback to his daughter so she can level out to her husband {that a} particular eating room chair has been acquired for him to make use of at household dinners.
DEAR ABBY: My son works two jobs and takes faculty courses. His deadbeat girlfriend doesn’t work. They broke up briefly, and she or he moved in with one other man, however he refused to assist her, so she acquired again with my son once more. She is aware of I’ve her quantity, so we don’t get alongside, which places a pressure on my relationship with my son. He deserves a greater life accomplice, however he doesn’t see it that manner. Is there something I can do to wake him up? — PLAIN AS DAY IN WASHINGTON
DEAR PLAIN: Your son is younger and hasn’t had time to realize a lot expertise about romantic relationships. If he didn’t decide up on the truth that his girlfriend left him as a result of she thought she had discovered one other meal ticket, and that she returned solely when the man refused to assist her, nothing you may say (that you simply haven’t already stated, I’m positive) will dissuade him from having to study a painful lesson on his personal.
Pricey Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, often known as Jeanne Phillips, and was based by her mom, Pauline Phillips. Contact Pricey Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Field 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
