Dear Amy: I have worked in the early-childhood intervention field in Chicago for more than 10 years as a home-health nurse for developmentally delayed infants and toddlers.
At this time of year, there are many children who stay in their cribs because the floor is too cold, are wrapped in blankets because they do not have enough clothing and eat only because their parents don’t.
Yesterday, I walked into the home of a family who had received gifts from a local charity organization.
There were boxes of food, vitamins, toilet paper, toothpaste, creams, gifts, clothing and children’s books – filling an otherwise empty apartment.
There was even a birthday present for the 3-year-old for next year.
To those people who spend their time and resources donating, packing and delivering gifts and food during the holiday season, I can only say that the world is a better place because of you.
This particular mother could only say that she could not imagine that someone would care so much about her and her family.
– Suzanne From Chicago
Dear Suzanne: I imagine that a lot of people reading this are doing so from the warmth of their homes, surrounded by the bounty and abundance of the holiday season.
Every person who contributed to a worthy cause this year should share in your thanks and in this family’s gratitude.
…
Dear Amy: Recently, my boss told me to fire someone who is not only a good worker but also a friend.
Knowing that this person was on the verge of accepting another position, I dragged my feet about firing him and strongly encouraged him to accept the other offer, which he did.
As it turns out the new job has not worked out to his expectations, and he has hinted that I am responsible for pushing him into this situation.
In not telling him he was about to be fired, I protected his pride. However, his opinion of me has suffered as a result.
What should I have done differently?
– Wondering
Dear Wondering: Your duty while on the job is to carry out your boss’ directives. If you didn’t agree with a directive, you should have taken it up with your boss.
You did your friend a favor. You’re not, however, his Fairy Jobmother. If he blames you because he accepted an offer that’s not working out for him, then he’s being a jerk, and you should call him on it.
…
Dear Amy: When I entered high school this year I thought that I would be receiving a proper education. I’m pretty satisfied with most of my classes – except one.
My Spanish teacher doesn’t speak much Spanish.
Every day, students have to correct him and tell him how to pronounce words or use accents. Most days the teacher will blow off a whole class by talking about something completely unrelated to Spanish.
I talked to my guidance counselor. She told me that I should be glad that the class would be an “easy A.” Can you give me any advice?
– Eager to Learn in Conn.
Dear Eager: Your folks immediately need to call a meeting with the guidance counselor to explore educational alternatives to your “easy A.” If the guidance counselor isn’t helpful, then your folks should kick it up the food chain to the principal.
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