DEAR ABBY: What is the appropriate response when I get an invitation to go somewhere and I must decline because I can't afford it or don't want to pay for it? I'm trying to cut my expenses, and I'm embarrassed that I can't afford any new expenses.
I appreciate the invitations, and sometimes, if it's worth it to me, I will accept. I don't want to lie when I really want to say, "This expense isn't worth it to me." What can I say that won't hurt anyone's feelings and won't get me caught in a lie? -- DON'T WANT TO LIE
DEAR DON'T WANT TO LIE: It isn't shameful to admit to someone that money is tight and you have to cut expenses, so you can't attend an event. It's something that everyone should be able to identify with. However, you should refrain from saying the expense "isn't worth it to you," because it comes across as judgmental, and the person may take offense.