Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/289434
DILBERT Scott Adams PEARLS BEFORE SWINE Stephan Pastis PICKLES Brian Crane BABY BLUES Jerry Scott & Rick Kirkman GET FUZZY Darby Conley ZITS Jerry Scott & Jim Borgman SHERMAN'S LAGOON Jim Toomey ARGYLE SWEATER Scott Hilburn BIZARRO Dan Piraro DEAR CAROLYN » Sev- eral years ago, I abruptly ended an 18-month rela- tionship. I stand firm with my reasons, but my ex was understandably upset. We haven't spoken since. I still feel guilty, but that's my cross to bear. I'm pretty sure that The Ex hates my guts. Here's the problem: In a few months, I expect to see The Ex at a mu- tual friend's event. Being in proximity will be unavoidable. I want to send The Ex an email saying that I'm sorry how things ended and that I'd like us to be at least cordial at this event, and that I'm willing to keep my distance if Ex doesn't want to talk to me. Part of me thinks this is sensible and will allow both of us to enjoy this event without apprehen- sion. The other part of me thinks this email will just sound condescending and melodramatic. What is the kindest way to approach this situation? — Bad Guy Trying to Be the Good Guy DEAR BAD GUY » Are you willing to share your rea- sons? I suspect they might affect my answer. In the meantime, my advice is just to go without any pre-call, and be polite when you see Ex. DEAR CAROLYN » Re: Bad Guy: Please, do not say one word. I've received "apolo- gies" like this in the past and they all have a "sorry I threw you on the pile of other men I've destroyed" tone and come off as very condescending, rude and awkward. He got broken up with, he was bitter, but now he has moved on. Be prepared that he's actually happier than you are. — Anonymous DEAR ANONYMOUS » Last line is suitable for bronz- ing. Not because it puts one in one's place, but because it rounds out the realm of what's possible — and an open mind is what inoculates against conde- scension. Assumptions, on the other hand, all but guarantee it. Thanks. DEAR CAROLYN » My rea- sons? To make a long story short, I was undergoing a lot of unrelated life- stresses and found my ex was only making me feel worse instead of better. Unfortunately, I couldn't express that until I had a panic attack and cut all ties. I expect — and really, hope — that Ex is happier than I am. — Bad Guy Again DEAR BAD GUY » That's an argument for saying some- thing to Ex. Not the pre- event ice-breaker you had in mind, though; a, "You never knew why I did what I did, and I wasn't able to articulate it until recently, but here it is now," blame- release that you've owed him for quite some time (but are contemplating only now when you know you must face him. Hm.). Include in this letter that "stresses built up, I had a panic attack and fled," that he deserved better and you wish you'd handled it better, and that you want nothing but hap- piness for him. Don't even expect a response. Attempting to smooth things over after a bad breakup Carolyn Hax Ask Carolyn Email Carolyn Hax at tellme@washpost.com, follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ carolyn.hax or chat with her online at noon Eastern time each Friday at www.washingtonpost.com. Sudoku Instructions: The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the number only once. Answer to Previous Puzzle Celebrity Cipher By Luis Campos Instructions: Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another. NEA Crossword Aries (March 21-April 19) — Your easygoing personality will draw attention and attract new alliances. Attend functions that allow you to share ideas, concepts and plans. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Don't make promises you won't be able to keep, or you'll face an emotional dilemma. Listen to friends and relatives. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Sharing opinions and listening to the people around you will be the first step in pursuing the home projects you have in mind. Avoid criticizing others. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Postpone any plans until you are confident that you have all the details worked out. You can avoid tension by not revealing your aims until your plan is sure. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — You may be feeling emotionally stifled. Getting out will enable you to make new friends. Take a close look at your present rela- tionships and decide if changes need to be made. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — It's a fine time for artistic expression. Whether you enjoy painting, music, literature or some other pastime, take on a project that will showcase your talent. Put aside problems. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Too much time spent helping others will lead to you neglect- ing the people and interests that mean the most. Take time to pursue activities that provide stimulation and happiness. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Budget wisely today. Your home improvement ideas may be more costly than you origi- nally planned. Get in touch with older relatives who could use your help or offer sound advice. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — There may be a rift with someone you deal with daily. Have a heart-to- heart talk to determine the extent of the problem, and be willing to compromise. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — New possibilities or posi- tions in the workplace are coming your way. Other people are impressed with the efforts you have put forth. Be prepared to make a career move. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Plan physical activities that will get you motivated and inspired. It could be as simple as a brisk walk or a hike in the country. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — A small change can boost your spirits. Consider making improvements at home. Ask a friend or family member to pitch in, and it will help you form a closer bond. Horoscope By Bernice Bede Osol THURSDAY, APRIL 3 Thursday, april 3, 2014 rEdBluFFdailyNEWs.COM | YOUR DAILY BREAK | 3 B