Dear Etty, 

Dear Etty, 

I was with a friend when she learned that she failed a test.  I sympathized.  She offered a dour smile and changed the subject.  Do I just ignore my friend’s obvious pain?   

Stormy Weather   

Dear Etty, 

A fellow volunteer repeatedly told me how I should perform a project.  I finally snapped and told her to handle the project herself.  She advised me that she is too busy and that I could finish it my way “if that is what is required to complete the project.”  What do you think? 

Dear Etty, I try hard to get along with my family.  However, at least once each month I explode over something.  Last time it happened when my spouse asked whether I had made a copy of an application after the envelope was sealed and stamped.  I became angry because I took the initiative to work on the application without any offer of help from her.  I did not appreciate her unhelpful comment.    

Dear Etty, 

Dear Etty, 

I recently collaborated with other members on a project.  I felt elated by our creative work.  We immediately received a complaint from a member who told us that the previous product was better.  Naturally, I felt deflated.  Isn’t our Society supposed to be a place where we receive support for trying new ideas? 

Dear Etty, 

What does an ethical society member do when another member’s behavior is bothering her?  In particular, how can I open a conversation with the member to help both of us reach our personal best? 

Fending Off Jerks 

Dear FOJ,