DEAR ABBY: It is unfortunate that "Dumbfounded in Foxboro, N.C." was suspected of shoplifting, detained and questioned. It is even more unfortunate that he felt humiliated and will no longer shop in that store again.
The security officer acted discreetly by asking "Dumbfounded" to follow her. When she realized her mistake, she apologized. Why didn't "Dumbfounded" think, "At least I know this store is trying to hold people accountable and not permit shoplifters to get away with theft (which causes retail prices to rise)"?
Abby, the security officer made a mistake for which she apologized. An apology should be sufficient.
The world would be a much kinder and gentler place if we treated each other with understanding and forgiveness, not retaliation.-- KATHY IN WASHINGTON
DEAR KATHY: I agree, and since this is the beginning of the new year, I'm sure the security officer who made the mistake would be relieved to know that she has been absolved.