Ask Amy: Waning sex life not necessarily the norm
Say to your beloved: “This is a tough thing for me to talk about, but I’d like to discuss our sex life. Can we set aside time tomorrow night to start the conversation?
No one is at fault. No one is to blame. And — with a willing partner — you can turn things around.
Dear Amy: I was taught it was rude to ask people how much they paid for something, but I have neighbors that ask me this all the time, whether it's an article of clothing or a plant, even if it's a gift I bought for them.
They also ask me how much money I make and how much I have saved for retirement.
I am on the verge of being rude myself and snapping at them to mind their own business.
How can I diplomatically tell them I don’t want to be asked this question any longer, and that it's rude?
— About to Blow
Dear About to Blow: Your neighbors obviously weren’t taught the same lesson you were. In some families, cultures, and neighborhoods, this question might not be considered rude.
You can be diplomatic by politely stating how you feel: “I probably should have said this before now, but I don’t like to talk about money or answer questions about the price of things. I understand that you’re curious, but it makes me uncomfortable.”
Your neighbors will probably continue doing this, because this is how they relate to people and initiate conversations. After you’ve made your diplomatic statement, you can greet repeat offenses with a smile and a reminder: “Remember? No money talk for me!”
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