by, of course, Abe Dear Abe,

Most of my friends swear a lot. I don't really like it when they do, but I've hung out with the same people for a long time. I'm afraid I'm gonna start picking it up, and I don't want to be like that. If I tell them, I'm afraid they'll just brush me off and laugh at me. What should I do?

Signed, Very Worried

Very Worried, If it really bothers you, you should say something to them. You don't want to pick up that kind of habit, because you'll just blurt out something inappropriate at the wrong time and get in trouble. If you want to tell them, do it at the right time, perhaps not at school, so they know that it really bothers you. Not only might you improve your auditory environment, but your friends could decide to respect your choice and drop the foul language as well.

Your ever loyal friend,

Abe

Dear Abe, I saw my girlfriend kissing another guy on her front porch only to realize that it was my best friend! They didn't see me, although I kinda wish they would have. I was too mad to confront her because I thought I would wind up hitting her. I think this has been going on for a while. I don't know what to do!

Signed, Angry and Depressed

Dear Angry and Depressed,

The first thing I have to say is, you've got some pretty messed up friends! You need to remove yourself from the situation. Dump your girlfriend; if she's cheated on you once, she'll probably do it again. Talk to her first to see if you can salvage the relationship in any way. If not, a break-up is inevitable. Find some new friends; get over the loss of your woman, and get on with life quickly--it doesn't last that long.

With sympathy,

Honest Abe