Dear Etty, 

A fellow volunteer repeatedly told me how I should perform a project.  I finally snapped and told her to handle the project herself.  She advised me that she is too busy and that I could finish it my way “if that is what is required to complete the project.”  What do you think? 

Dear Etty, I try hard to get along with my family.  However, at least once each month I explode over something.  Last time it happened when my spouse asked whether I had made a copy of an application after the envelope was sealed and stamped.  I became angry because I took the initiative to work on the application without any offer of help from her.  I did not appreciate her unhelpful comment.    

Dear Etty, 

Dear Etty, 

I recently collaborated with other members on a project.  I felt elated by our creative work.  We immediately received a complaint from a member who told us that the previous product was better.  Naturally, I felt deflated.  Isn’t our Society supposed to be a place where we receive support for trying new ideas? 

Dear Etty, 

What does an ethical society member do when another member’s behavior is bothering her?  In particular, how can I open a conversation with the member to help both of us reach our personal best? 

Fending Off Jerks 

Dear FOJ, 

Dear Etty,

I frequently hear different members who chair Sunday morning platforms talk about the Northern Virginia Ethical Society as their community.  Why do you think having a community is important? 

Ethicist in Virginia

Dear Etty,

I received a call the other day from a work colleague with whom I am friendly.  She was upset after receiving an especially critical annual review that she felt was also unfair.  She told me that much of the criticism centered on her failure to inform higher-ups about developing issues.  I think she deserved some of the criticism.  She wants to talk with me about the review.  Do I owe her an honest reaction?