Dear Annie: Iâm insulted by my neighbor

Dear Annie: We have this wonderfully helpful neighbor who is always willing to help folks in the neighborhood when needed and quite often does. The only problem is he masks his sarcasm and insults as jokes and everyone laughs. This is directed at everyone EVERY TIME we talk with him. Honestly, I’m tired of his insults and don’t quite know how to handle him anymore. Any suggestions would be very much appreciated. — Tired of Being Insulted

Dear Tired: If one person says it, 10 think it. I would imagine that your fellow friends and neighbors are also fed up and uncomfortable by these comments.

The next time this man says something rude or off-color, call him out on it. It’s possible he doesn’t realize how what he thinks are jokes impact those around him. If he continues even after you’ve confronted him, limit your interactions with him. Perhaps a bit of distance will make him realize the seriousness of his words.

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“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].