It is not rude to turn off your telephone by switching it on to an answering machine, which is cheaper and less disruptive than ripping it out of the wall. Those who are offended because they cannot always get through when they seek, at their own convenience, to barge in on people are suffering from a rude expectation.
Judith MartinIt is, indeed, a trial to maintain the virtue of humility when one can't help being right.
Judith Martinthe obligation to express gratitude deepens with procrastination. The longer you wait, the more effusive must be the thanks.
Judith MartinWhen people start hurling insults at you, you know their minds are closed and there's no point in debating. You disengage yourself as quickly as possible from the situation.
Judith Martin