Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/551444
DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman PHOEBEANDHERUNICORN DanaSimpson ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»Mysister (in her early 40s) was diagnosed with cancer. They caught it early, so it's still at an early stage. We in the family all found out about this a few weeks ago. I have messaged her and her husband a few times since then to chitchat, but never asked them about the cancer. I feel like if they want to talk about it or need my help, I will be there. It is understood by everyone in my family that we will help each other if asked. My sister and I haven't spoken for a week, and I found out from my other sister that my brother-in-law called me rude and not supportive because I didn't offer to help. I have two young children, and the younger one was constantly sick. I also work full time and am dealing with a dying father-in-law. I don't have the memory capacity or time to follow up on them all the time. Was I being rude? —Hurt DEAR HURT » You were being rude, and you ARE being rude. Even if yours is a family that considers illness to be a private matter — your sister has cancer. It is incompre- hensible that you would learn of this, initiate contact with your sister to "chitchat," and then never mention it. Your sister and her husband also did not bring it up, but they knew you had an awareness of their situation and were no doubt expecting you to at least inquire. You say you can't be supportive because your sister's cancer is trumped by other family issues. This is even more baffling, because if you have experience dealing with illness, surely you realize that the comfort doesn't come from offers of "help," but from having people at least acknowl- edge the challenging situ- ation illness presents. In the course of your messaging, what does it cost you to type: " Oh, Sis, I heard about your cancer. Thank goodness it was caught early. I'm thinking of you ..."? All of your reasons for not doing this come off as justifications after the fact. You should apologize and offer some sisterly support. DEAR AMY » A husband calling himself "Stuck" described his wife's anger, rages and constant negativity — and the impact on him and their sons. This woman might have a thyroid disorder or be feeling the effects of menopause. She should see her doctor. — Concerned DEAR CONCERNED » Many readers responded with theories about underly- ing conditions as possible causes of this woman's abusive behavior. I was most concerned about her husband and children, who were bearing the brunt of her criticism and rages. Can woman be forgiven for ignoring her sister's cancer? You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@tribune.com and follow her on Twitter @askingamy. Amy Dickinson Ask Amy Sudoku Instructions:Theobjectistoplacethe numbers1to9intheemptysquaresso thateachrow,eachcolumnandeach 3x3boxcontainsthenumberonlyonce. AnswertoPreviousPuzzle CelebrityCipher ByLuisCampos Instructions:CelebrityCiphercryptogramsarecreatedfromquotationsbyfamouspeople, pastandpresent.Eachletterinthecipherstandsforanother. NEACrossword Leo(July23-Aug.22)— You may feel like complaining, but doing your best despite setbacks will bring you closer to your goal. Working hard will give you a solid reputation. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Take the time and money necessary to make prudent investments. Hoping for an inheritance or windfall will not secure your future. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Despite your appeal, don't be too eager to commit to a part- nership. Someone may be trying to use you for selfish reasons. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Keep moving forward. You will be pleased with the results you achieve and the satisfaction you feel. Love is in the air and a celebration is in order. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Make plans to spend an intimate evening with a special someone. If you are single, go to a community event in order to meet someone interesting. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — You will end up in trouble or at a loss due to someone you counted on who turned out to be unreliable. Take matters into your own hands and guarantee positive results. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — You'll be drawn toward new experiences. If you are willing and prepared to make a contribution at a function, it will help you advance. Present your innovative ideas to influential people. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — You will be upset with yourself if you allow friends or relatives to keep you from fol- lowing through with your plans. Stick to your agenda and finish what you start. Aries (March 21-April 19) — By taking a leadership role, you will outmaneuver the competi- tion. You have the intelligence and stamina necessary to step up and make things happen. Put time aside for romance. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Letting someone else make financial decisions for you will backfire. You owe it to yourself to stay in control of your per- sonal monetary matters. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Your heightened emotional state will lead to an impulsive response. Consider the pos- sible repercussions before you say something hurtful. Wait until you feel less stressed to respond. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Be cautious around people who are acting unreasonable. This is a great day to work on a solitary project or find an enjoy- able activity away from divisive situations. Horoscope By Eugenia Last WEDNESDAY, AUG. 5 WEDNESDAY,AUGUST5,2015 REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM |YOURDAILYBREAK | 3 B