Dear Abby Covers Workplace Ethics, Aging, Church Etiquette

In the latest edition of the long-running advice column Dear Abby, syndicated writer Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, addressed a range of personal dilemmas from readers across the United States, offering practical guidance on workplace ethics, reflective memories in later life, and church etiquette.

The first letter came from a worker in New Mexico who described a close-knit office team that has operated harmoniously like a family, free of drama or politics. However, tension arose when a colleague named Erin continued working from home after the COVID-19 pandemic, while others returned to the office. This arrangement bred resentment among the team, though no one confronted Erin directly. The writer revealed that Erin had secretly accepted a new job but withheld the information from their boss out of fear of repercussions. Despite Erin's request for secrecy, the writer informed the supervisor, leading to feelings of guilt over the breach of trust. Van Buren responded by noting the lack of details on the company's policies but emphasized that Erin's actions constituted taking a position "on the Q.T." while still employed. Drawing from California employment...