Is it cold in your house? This was revolutionary. I've been freezing in so many homes, but it had never occurred to me to make temperature inquiries in advance so I could wear a thicker jumper or thermals. Even if I'd had the idea, I probably wouldn't have followed through for fear of appearing rude, preferring instead to slowly lose the feeling in my toes. But here was proof that, for a host, this kind of query is welcome after all, most people want their guests to be comfortable and have a nice time.
Dear Eric: I recently pet-sat for somewhat new friends. I had been invited on a weekend trip with them but had a work commitment that meant I couldn't go. I offered to pet-sit for them, which is something I've done for other friends from time to time. During the weekend there was an incident which wasn't really anyone's fault that resulted in some minor property damage. I let them know via text what happened and explained the situation and offered to cover any damages.
Carrie and Ashley are both good friends of ours. We enjoy their company and accept their social invitations when offered. A few years ago, they had a kerfuffle that put a strain on their relationship. My wife and I don't want to play games or favorites, so we invite them both to events. So far, every event where they've been in the same room has resulted in some sort of unpleasantness public enough to detract from the event itself and usually ends
Empathy for whom the mother or the child? Mature parents do not slap their children across the face for acting up. They take the kid out of the store until they calm down. If this happens in public, one can only imagine what goes on in private. If I had seen it, I would have snapped a picture of the three of them, as well as the license plate of the mother's car. Then I would report the woman to child protective services so they could investigate.
I used to take him to office functions, like company dinners or business galas, but I hesitate now because he may begin cursing like a sailor at the most inappropriate moment. It's almost as if he has lost a filter now that he is older. How can I get him to be aware of his behavior? If he refuses to tone it down, I fear I won't be able to take him places anymore.
In a world where personal items are valued differently, lighting a 'luxury' candle can lead to unexpected conflict over what is considered respectful behavior in someone else’s space.
