Sallie Parker: 'But you've always let me carry that on before'
Last Updated on 3/12/2010
Published on 5/17/2009
By Sallie Parker
Q. Dear Sallie,
I travel for a living. I always pack the same items in my carry-on and go through security at my home airport without incident. On my last trip, however, I was told her I would have to put my sunscreen in my checked luggage. I was surprised and said, "But you've always let me carry that on before!" The head of security strode over. He said, "You got a problem, Lady?" He demanded that I either put the bottle in my checked luggage or he would confiscate it. Why are people in uniform so rude?
Sarah, Asheville, NC
A. Dear Sarah,
All people in uniform aren't rude, but they do have to put up with irate people all day long. Of course, it would have been better if, instead of using aggression to enact the new rules, he simply explained them to you.
Sincerely,
Sallie
Q. Dear Sallie,
What kind of flower should I get my boyfriend for prom night?
Cindy, Conway, SC
A. Dear Cindy,
A rose is always nice or you might try matching your flower to the one he gets for you.
Sincerely,
Sallie
Q. Dear Sallie,
Last week I was having lunch with a lady friend with whom I am not closely acquainted when I spotted a live spider in her hair. Instead of just telling her and risking her getting bitten or having an arachnoleptic fit, I asked her not to move and removed the spider.
Joking, she asked me afterwards, "How do you know I didn't want it there?
Why, I might have put it there for decoration!" In retrospect I realize I invaded her personal space without permission. In the future, how do you think I should react in such a situation?
Bugged in San Francisco
A. Dear Bugged,
You might ask casually, "Do you like spiders?" If she says yes, you can ask for permission to remove it. If she says no, clap a teacup on her head and remove the spider before she knows what's happening. Then tell her why.
Sincerely,
Sallie
To send a question to Sallie, please e-mail her at Salliemid@aol.com. Copyright © 2009 Sallie Middleton Parker. All rights reserved.
