DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was invited to a 30th birthday party for my best friend’s husband at a restaurant. We arrived, gave him our gift, and then placed our orders. Two days later, my friend texted me ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: Could you suggest alternative replies to “I’m sorry” when one hears bad or unsettling news from family or friends? When one hears “I lost my job,” “My husband has cancer” or other ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’ve been with my fiance for 16 years. I have a good relationship with his mother, though I wouldn’t call us best friends. We talk and get along well when we go to her house, but ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: Several people of my acquaintance are in the habit of offering a rationale for poor behavior, quickly followed by, “But that’s not an excuse.” For example: “I’m sorry I lost my ...