I was raised that people's mail and packages were theirs to open, and I would never think of opening anything sent to him. This is an issue for me, but he brushes it off. He feels entitled to open my packages since it is his home, too. How can I make it clear that I expect him to respect my personal mail when he thinks this is no big deal? - No Respect in New York
DEAR NO RESPECT: If I were you, I'd be less concerned about his opening your packages and far more concerned that when you tell him something bothers you, he ignores it. His disregard for your feelings is a red flag.
Your boyfriend appears to think that what is yours is his. Is the reverse also true? Does he also check your phone messages and email? Does this extend to any other areas of your relationship?
If this was only about his opening your mail, I would advise you to open a post-office box in your name only. However, if the answer to any of my questions is yes, I think you should take a sober look at the entire relationship.
DEAR ABBY: Would you please settle a friendly debate between me and my friends? Is it ever appropriate to use your cellphone to update social media or send a text message during a church sermon, or is it still considered a rude act? - Old-fashioned in Kentucky
DEAR OLD-FASHIONED: It's still considered rude.
