The article features two letters to Dear Abby addressing personal dilemmas. One writer expresses concern after overhearing a co-worker mockingly imitate a transgender person, feeling regret for not speaking up to defend the dignity of transgender individuals and seeking guidance on how to respond in the future. The second letter discusses a woman in her 70s in a friends-with-benefits relationship with a married man, worrying about her children's judgment and potential relationship damage if they found out. Dear Abby encourages both writers to assert their values and stand up for themselves and their rights in a respectful manner.
"It is unfortunate that transgender people (who make up less than 1% of the population) are being scapegoated by ignorant, ill-informed individuals. Gender identity disorder is not contagious."
"The next time this happens (and it may), don't be shy about telling your co-worker that what he's doing is inappropriate and hurtful and not to do it in front of you again."
"I know it would damage my relationship with them. On the other hand, I don't want to live my life on their terms."
"I think that at the age of 70 you are entitled to make your own decisions about your life and relationships without letting societal expectations dictate your choices."
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