Dear Abby: Oh Abby No

[cereta]

DEAR ABBY: Is there any way to counter a stranger's mean or hurtful remark (racist, age-related or sexist) in a mall or store? I feel I have to say something -- without being confrontational -- even if the remark isn't aimed at me. What do you suggest? -- COMPELLED TO ACT IN OTTAWA, CANADA

DEAR COMPELLED: Because you don't want a confrontation, I urge you to say nothing to the person who made the offensive remark. However, you could approach the person who was the target and quietly say: "That was uncalled for. I hope you realize the person who said that is ignorant, and don't let it get to you."

Comments

[ambyr]

On the one hand, I support your facepalming at Abby. On the other hand "I feel I have to say something -- without being confrontational" is a pretty impossible request to fulfill.

[cereta]

Oh, yeah, that was basically a no-win. It was the last bit that got me.