When to Keep Quiet (page 2 of 2)

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TV Obsession, the Neighbor's Light, and Job Rejection

Question
My dad spends hours watching TV. He’s obsessed with the show "Smallville," about Superman as a teenager living in Kansas. He tapes every episode and hangs out in chat rooms with other fans. He loved the comic as a kid, and I’m not saying he can’t have a hobby, but it’s a teenybopper show, and this is too much, right?
-- Confused Daughter

Dear Confused,
Listen, parents of teenagers have many important jobs, and one of them is to embarrass their kids so it’s easier for them to fly the coop when it’s time. Your dad seems to be doing fine. As to the appropriateness of his behavior, worry about your own conduct and leave him alone. There are far worse chat rooms he could be spending time in.

Question
Our longtime neighbors just mounted a gigantic outdoor floodlight. It turns their driveway, and my family room, into a Friday night football stadium. I can’t see the moon or the lovely woods outside my house anymore. I fear starting a neighborhood feud, but I’m also grinding my teeth. What should I do?
-- Blinded by the Light

Dear Blinded,
Save your teeth! Take action. Mr. and Mrs. Brights may naively have no idea of the eyestraining effect they’re having on you. Invite them over for dessert some evening. Give them the best seats in your family room, facing the picture window. See if they notice the difference their home improvement has made. If they don’t, politely point out the stadium light and request it be turned toward the opposite goalpost. I’m sure they’ll see it your way.

Question of the Month
Our company played musical chairs again, and I was the one left seatless. I have to go through an exit interview and I’m tempted to sing like a canary about all the favoritism, inefficiency and dumb decisions. Should I—or will it get around and hurt me in my next job?
-- Truth or Dare

Dear Truth,
Every office has its share of favoritism, inefficiency and dumb decisions. Your swan song will win you no applause and will likely taint your reputation. Take the high road. Thank the company for the opportunity they gave you, mention all you’ve gained by working there, and leave them wondering if they shouldn’t have saved you that chair.