Dear Abby: Showing up way too early is only one of the rude things these party guests do

Greetings, Abby

One couple arrived an hour and a half early for an event we just held at our house! It struck me as quite impolite. Fortunately, I wasn’t half-dressed or in the shower. I was too exhausted to say anything because I was busy cleaning the house and preparing food.

I had intended to use my partner’s assistance for a few last-minute chores, but he amused them while I completed party preparations. Despite our repeated courteous corrections, these guests have also given our kids nicknames. How can we set clear limits more effectively? IN THE SOUTH SEETHING

To Sething,

Telling these individuals (I hope they are not family) that you would prefer they not arrive early because you are not ready to entertain them is one method to do that. DO NOT LET THEM IN if they disregard your request and arrive early once more. If they continue to refer to your kids by nicknames despite your requests that they stop, stop requesting. Inform them that it is disrespectful and that you will not invite them over again.

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Greetings, readers:

The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., who was killed in 1968 for his civil rights work, is remembered today. When he said, “Nonviolence is a powerful and just weapon that cuts without wounding and ennobles the man who wields it,” his words still hold true today. It’s a healing sword.

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Abigail Van Buren, better known as Jeanne Phillips, is the author of Dear Abby. Her mother, Pauline Phillips, began the company. For more information, visit www.DearAbby.com or send an email to P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

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