DEAR ABBY: I have a problem remembering people's names, even though I have been attending church with some of them for nearly 10 years. It's embarrassing when someone greets me and I can't recall his or her name. Have you any suggestions for me? -- BEWILDERED IN GRAND RAPIDS
DEAR BEWILDERED: Your problem is very common. Some people have solved it by using word association when they meet people, and by repeating the name after being introduced. Example: "It's nice to meet you, (true, blue) Sue." (The true and blue are, of course, silent.) A group picture from the church newsletter with a caption underneath can also be a powerful memory-jogger if you look at it before you leave for church.
If all else fails, fall back on that old show-business standby, "DAHLING, you look MAH-velous!"