Greetings, Miss Manners Is telling an elderly person that she looks young for her age impolite?
PERSONAL READER: Can’t you just compliment her on her appearance?
Miss Manners is aware that most individuals are charmed to appear younger than they actually are since society views growing older as a shame.
People who disagree with that assumption, however, find it condescending to be treated as though they do—for example, being called a young lady or young man when one is clearly not. Furthermore, a complement doesn’t need to include that.
Stories by
Judith Martin
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Miss Manners: Why did my concern for a woman s safety get a rebuke from gym management?
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Miss Manners: Do I need to explain to prolific party throwers why I m done feeding their greed?
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Miss Manners: If host is doing something illegal, is it the guest s responsibility to stop them?
Greetings, Miss Manners The husband of my challenging mother-in-law passed away. She never seems to appreciate whatever I do for her and always wants more, therefore I don’t want to do anything for her. However, because she is elderly and alone, I feel sorry for her.
Although there are two sisters, they are not related to her. I don’t understand. What ought I to do?
PERSONAL READER: Other than encouraging your husband to assist their mother, is that what you mean?
Miss Manners can be reached by email at [email protected], via her website at www.missmanners.com, or by mail at Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
