DEAR ABBY: Eight months ago I began a weight-loss program the same week as my best friend, "Darby." We both have the same amount to lose, but she is using an expensive "liquid fast" combined with a private personal trainer at a gym. She has already spent a few thousand dollars.
I am working completely on my own, and have lost 30 pounds. Darby has lost 32.
She came over to visit and brought with her a huge stack of her old clothes, saying they no longer fit, but implying they would fit me! I do weigh a bit more than she does, but I am 4 inches taller.
I was offended, but too shocked to say anything. I put the clothes in my coat closet to dispose of later. What should I have said to my "friend"? I am really hurt. -- INSULTED IN SAN FRANCISCO
DEAR INSULTED: How about this? "Thank you. Perhaps I can have them taken in or lengthened -- or save them for a short, fat friend."