DEAR MISS MANNERS: When I give someone a ride to a shared destination, I expect them to drive to my house, and then I’ll take them. One friend refuses, as it’s in the opposite direction of our destination.

I think this is weird! Why do I have to drive to her house to pick her up? Not a deal-breaker by any means, but it seems quite strange to me. What difference does it make which direction you are traveling in to get a ride?

GENTLE READER: It is indeed strange, but not for the reasons you cite.

Miss Manners thought the point of offering a ride was so that the other person would not have to drive. If it is necessary to drive to your house anyway — and in the opposite direction of the destination — how is this practical, much less a favor?

Fortunately for the friendship, you have declared it not to be a deal-breaker. One hopes that you two will figure it out and reconcile — in time to get to your next destination.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.