DEAR ELLIE, so i like this guy, right? and uh we got into an argument recently and i've refused to text him. but he hasn't texted me back, so uhh. i don't know how to deal with that, yeah. but i'm like 99% sure he was in the wrong and should text me back. what should i do? i'm-really-upset.
Dear Upset, It is never best to deal with a disagreement with someone whom you care about with silence. My advice to you would be to message him. If you are awaiting a response from him, it is likely he is awaiting the same from you. Best wishes, Ellie
Dear Ellie, There's a man at work who really seems to need a good woman in his life. He's so handsome, and yet he's been known to show up to the office in such ill-advised things as felt hats that may very well have come from a garbage heap, and once, mismatched socks!
All right, so he's kind of rough around the edges, but I just know there's a kind-hearted romantic in there somewhere! He talks to his cat when he thinks no one's watching, and he's got a dreamy smile.
Essentially, how do I get him to notice me? I'm just the woman for him, but he's a little obtuse, if you take my meaning. I've tried almost everything I can think of short of propositioning him directly, but there are nearly always others about. What to do, what to do? Awaiting a reply, Lonely Lady
Dear Lonely Lady, My, my. If he is as obtuse as you describe, then perhaps he is not cluing into your discreet hints. I think you would do far better by inviting him out and ensuring that he recognizes that this is separate from work. If he accepts, then I am glad for you.
If he does not, I would suggest leaving him be. It would appear, at that point, that he is not interested in you. Regards, Ellie
Dear Ellie, Do you think it's okay to get married to someone you don't love? Isn't the whole point of marriage getting to be with the person you love? Best, Not Fighting
Dear Not Fighting, Marriage is a rather tricky topic to advise upon, though I shall try. There are a multitude of reasons as to why one marries, and, yes, love is one of them. If someone is marrying out of another reason, it is just as valid as marrying for love. So long as the person marrying is content with their decision, I would simply wish them the best and allow them to continue along their own path. Best of luck, Ellie
Dear Ellie, I have a friend whom I like very much. Unfortunately, when we spend time together, people seem to mistake our friendship for another sort of relationship altogether.
I enjoy her company, but such rumors are a detriment to both my reputation and hers, as we are both yet unmarried.
Please, how can I continue to foster my friendship without being the cause of untrue speculation that might distress my family? Kindest regards, Uncertain Friend
Dear Uncertain, Rumors popping up regarding romantic liasons are not uncommon. It can be frustrating and made for some discomfort when out in public, but if there is truly no reason to believe that the rumors may have credence, then I would simply ignore it.
The rumormongers will find new people to prey upon in time. Best of luck, Ellie
Dear Ellie,
Why are women so [word redacted] frustrating?
-Unsigned
Dear Unsigned, Why are men so complicated? Perhaps you ought to look at your own actions to see why those of the women you are speaking of frustrate you so. Perhaps you are being unclear in your intentions. It is not uncommon amongst men. Regards, Ellie
Dear Ellie, Lately I admit I have been troubled by a number of rumors circulating about me. As far as I am aware, I do nothing to encourage such ludicrous tales about myself as are being spread around; in fact, I lead quite a tranquil life, which one would think would be enough to deter the rumormongers. It concerns me that people around me may be troubled by these tales, but I am at a loss as to how to put an end to them. Would you happen to have any advice for me? Sincerely, Concerned
Dear Concerned, As I advised Uncertain, it is often simply best to wait them out. There is a saying: the lady doth protest too much. The more you speak out against the rumor, the more credence it provides it. It is frustrating to be saddled with stories regarding your person or character that are patently untrue, especially when one leads an especially tranquil life, but gossips simply wish to see discord wherever they gaze. Best wishes, Ellie