Author Archives: Tough Talk: An Advice Column

Dear Tough Talk, I work with a man who is really smart and most of the time a good guy.  In our office, we support each other by complimenting those who do good work or just try to do well. He is regularly complimented, but never seems to do the same.  I’ve spoken with myContinue reading “Today’s Column: Ground Hog Day”

Tough Talk, I’m part of a bowling league and there are teams that always compete year after year.   There are so many people and the main discussion is their score and handicap.  Even though we’ve bowled for years, I can’t remember these numbers.  I feel guilty even though they don’t remember my stats either.  ThereContinue reading “Today’s Column: February 1, 2023”

TT, I have to give a presentation for work in a couple weeks and I’m really nervous.  I have always been bad and hated public speaking.  I can’t sleep and everything else is not getting done, at work and at home.  Tough Talk, what do you think I should do?  (Hamilton, Kentucky) Hamilton, Very simple. Continue reading “Today’s Column: January 31, 2023”

Tough Talk, My husband passed away about a year ago and I have become a part-time employee of our marriage counselor and deacon at our congregation.  In the past, he was kind and supportive, but since my husband passed away there has been a change in his tone, like he is now my spiritual guideContinue reading “Today’s Column: January 30, 2023”

Tough Talk, My husband passed away about a year ago and I have become a part-time employee of our marriage counselor and deacon at our congregation.  In the past, he was kind and supportive, but since my husband passed away there has been a change in his tone, like he is now my spiritual guideContinue reading “Today’s Column: January 30, 2023”

Tough Talk, I have always been up in the air about having children.  Nothing  against them, but I never had this overwhelming urge to have kids like my brother and sister do.  I have finally met the woman of my dreams who is also hesitant and has medical concerns as well.  What is bothering meContinue reading “Today’s Column: January 25, 2023”

Tough Talk, Recently, I was at a sporting event and when the national anthem was being played, two men were staring at me with daggers in their eyes.  I realized it was because I didn’t place my hand over my heart like they were doing.  It wasn’t out of disrespect, but because I can’t bendContinue reading “Today’s Column: January 24, 2023”

Dear Tough Talk, I am a grandfather with seven incredible grandkids.  We love them dearly and having their birthday parties at our home.  We can’t go a few weeks without something to celebrate.  One thing that bothers me however is that my wife refuses to help with preparing, entertaining and cleaning up the mess afterContinue reading “Today’s Column: January 23, 2023”

Tough Talk, I am in my early 40s and single.  I would just like to meet a woman who wants to be with me.  Unfortunately, I have this condition where I drool and stare at people.  It’s not just a bad a habit, but a real condition I have been diagnosed for: scrockaphilia.  Also, IContinue reading “Today’s Column: January 20, 2023”

Tough Talk, I’m very close to my mother and we’ve been through some tough times together.  And after years of being alone and single, she has finely met a very nice man who treats her very well.  In fact so well Tough Talk, that I barely see or talk to her anymore.  She’s always goingContinue reading “Today’s Column: January 19, 2023”