ArcaMax

Is it ever OK for a single girl to date a married man?

-- Minority Employee

Dear Employee: Let's recap. You somehow got to the ripe old age of 35 and are unsure about the ethics of dating married men.

So no, it's never OK for a single "girl" to date married men. Furthermore, if you thought of yourself more as a grown woman than a girl, you might have more of a handle on this.

Any man (married or not) who hits on you at work is actually flirting with a sexual harassment situation. For you, even engaging in a consensual affair with anyone at the office leaves you open to professional unpleasantness and unintended consequences, especially if the man is married and the sexual relationship goes south.

Are you all really in management? Don't your clients and colleagues deserve your full attention?

Dear Amy: Several months ago, you responded to a question from someone wondering how to tolerate being around someone who has harmed you.

You responded that the choices are to confront, avoid, or escape. You suggested practicing each scenario in advance.

I almost let this person who hurt me prevent me from traveling to the funeral of a beloved cousin. Her mom and sister needed me there.

Then I looked at your advice again and again. I practiced. It not only worked, but I took back my power.

-- Survivor

Dear Survivor: Thank you so much. I believe in the power of practice. I often rehearse responses and reactions to challenging situations.

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(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)