Man’s drunken behavior damages valued friendship

DEAR ABBY

Man’s drunken behavior damages valued friendship

DEAR ABBY: I have been friends with “Janet” for eight years. We have been very close, talk often, and go to lunch three times a month. We are like two peas in a pod and have always been honest with each other.

Our relationship is open and aboveboard.

On a recent holiday, I went to her house for a party, got drunk and made an inappropriate comment to one of her friends, who had also had too much to drink. Janet called me out in front of the others, demanded I apologize, told me that what I had said was disrespectful, and said she doesn’t want to see me again.

Abby, she tossed out an eight-year friendship over one comment. I don’t understand.

Do you?

— STUPID GUY OUT WEST DEAR GUY: Not knowing what you said, I can only guess it was so far off the charts that you offended not only the person to whom the comment was directed, but also Janet and the other guests at the party. She may have reacted the way she did because you have done similar things in the past. You will have a clearer understanding if you talk to her about it when you call to apologize.

*** DEAR ABBY: What can I do about my boss? I have worked at a bus company for 23 years.

My new boss started six months ago. He jokes and laughs with all the other ladies in the office,

but when it comes to me, he’s all business. He talks to me only about things that are work-related, and when I try to talk to him about anything else, he gives me a forced grin and walks away. Any suggestions?

— FEELING LEFT OUT DEAR FEELING: Your new boss may be intimidated because of your seniority and experience. It may also be because of your age. I am unsure of his reason for treating you differently, but your next move should be to have a talk with your boss to express your feelings about this.

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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O.

Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

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By Abigail Van Buren