DEAR ABBY: Although I have lived in Denver for a number of years, I still have a very thick, very Southern accent. I am often asked, "Where did you come from?" My answer is usually, "From my mother!"
Am I overly sensitive, or are people being rude? If you have a more appropriate answer, please share it with me. -- DRAWLING IN DENVER
DEAR DRAWLING: When people hear an accent -- regional or foreign -- they are inclined to be curious. Although it is technically rude to ask a stranger a personal question about his or her background, I don't think it's meant to be insulting. Because you don't care to elaborate on your background, your answer is fine.