DEAR ABBY: I was at a friend's wedding and introduced myself to the groom's father. Because I was carrying something in my right hand, I extended my left hand. I'm no dead-fish guy, but the "lobster's" grip was so tight it crushed my ring into my finger, causing a bruise. I made no comment at the time, but now I am seething over his behavior. What might I have said, or should I say in some similar encounter? -- SORE IN SILICON VALLEY
DEAR SORE: Some men, in an attempt to prove their masculinity, tend to overdo it. It was within your rights to say, "Oww! Loosen up!" In the future, transfer whatever you're carrying in your right hand so you can observe the social amenities.