Combat blues with open arms

Dear Abby: I read that there is a suicide somewhere in the world every 40 seconds. Numbers rise at holiday time. Feeling like a child whose nose is pressed against a window, seeing others from the outside as they enjoy the warmth of the moment, can lead to thoughts of abandonment and despair. That’s why I have a mission – I set an extra place at my table.

I can attest that it works. One year I announced in church that my home would be open to anyone who didn’t have a family. A woman came forward and accepted my invitation. We spent the day getting to know each other and bonded in friendship.

Please encourage your readers to set an extra place at their holiday table. My brother committed suicide. I move forward in his honor.

Dear Full Of Gratitude: Please accept my sympathy for the tragic loss of your brother. I’m pleased to help spread the word. Isolation can be a killer, and inclusion can be a lifesaver. Bless you for what you are doing.

Dear Abby: How can I tactfully tell an elementary school teacher in whose class I assist that she uses poor grammar and words that aren’t words (i.e., “I boughten this yesterday,” or, “Her and me went to the soccer game.”)?

Dear Tactful: Children model their behavior after the example the adults around them provide. I don’t think that as her subordinate you should take it upon yourself to correct the woman. I do think this is something you should discuss with the school principal.