Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/712002
DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman THEDUPLEX GlennMcCoy ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»Agoodfriend of mine is currently transitioning from male to female. We have been friends for quite some time now. We enjoy each other's company and get along very well. She is, understandably, dealing with some tough and complicated emotional issues. This was the case before she transitioned, and she now claims to be more at peace with herself. However, she still suffers from very deep- seated insecurities. She monologues about her- self and how she is feel- ing. She acted like this when she was a man, but now it has increased tenfold. My other two female friends in our circle firmly believe that at its core, her transition comes from a place of despera- tion for attention — I realize how insensitive that may sound, but it is what we genuinely feel. Her transition began simply, but it's getting her the attention she craves, and now she likely feels she is in too deep to go back. She isn't taking hormones yet. We have been ex- tremely supportive of her throughout this process, and so are her parents. Aside from her atten- tion-seeking and constant need for approval, what we really take issue with is that some of the behav- iors she thinks are "what it means to be a woman" are offensive, such as constantly apologizing for her appearance or her voice — because it doesn't yet sound feminine enough — or announcing to the whole room when she needs to "powder her nose." We constantly vent about these things when she' s no t arou nd, bu t it's getting to the point where we feel that we really need to address them with her directly. How can we do this in a posi- tive way and help her to change for the better? —ConcernedFriend DEAR CONCERNED » I ap- preciate the sensitivity, but speculating about your friend's motives, sincerity or longer-term success in this gender identification will do no good. It's happening, no matter what you think. If you intend to main- tain a close friendship, then it's time to act like a friend and be honest, instead of judging and gossiping about her in the background. I don't necessarily see her behavior as "offen- sive," but ... cartoonish. In fairness, if you (and I) wanted to act like a man, we might behave like an exaggerated stereotype too. (I'd channel John Wayne, with notes of Ryan Gosling.) She might be enjoying her current flamboyance. You can say, "Girl, do you want some tips on how to interact a little more like other women do?" She might appreciate this offer — because it's all about her. If she is not able to simply be a more authen- tic and generous friend to you (regardless of her gender status), then your long-term relationship is at risk. Gender transition strains the status of a good friendship You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@tribpub.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)— Trust and believe in who you are and what you can do, but don't ignore suggestions or questions posed by those who know you well and love you. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Instead of letting anger take hold, take action. A problem at home or with someone who de- pends on you too much is best dealt with calmly and quickly. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Stay focused on the best way to use your talents to get ahead. An unexpected change in an important relationship will turn out to be beneficial. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Ask for a favor if it will help you gain access to something. An turn of events at home will warrant protecting possessions. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — You will be faced with a learning curve. False informa- tion, misinterpretation, jealousy and unfair competition will keep you on your toes. Don't share your ideas or your intentions. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — If you are planning to make a personal change, do so quietly and only after you have done sufficient research. Circum- stances are not always as they appear. Do things your way. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Do whatever it takes to finish what you start. Your dedication and determination will result in a chance to take on more responsibility and increase your income. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — Do whatever will bring you the most in return. Don't let anyone tie up your time or use your resources when you need everything you've got to reach your goal. Aries (March 21-April 19) — When it comes to work, money and getting along with colleagues, you are best to let practicality and common sense lead the way. Go with the flow, not against it. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Do the things that make you happy and incorporate them into your everyday routine. Staying fit and keeping up with current trends will position you for opti- mum gains and greater stability. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — You are best to observe, listen and remain positive when deal- ing with friends or family. Not everyone will be clear-headed or realize the consequences. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Do something that inspires you to try new things and meet peo- ple who have something unique to offer. A retreat or traveling somewhere unfamiliar will be a valuable experience that en- courages personal growth. Horoscope By Eugenia Last FRIDAY, AUG. 5 | YOURDAILYBREAK | REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016 8 B