DEAR ABBY: A woman in my social circle has called me a know-it-all and accused me of making her feel stupid. She has refused to accept my apology, canceled our carpools to events and has started challenging me at every turn of any conversation.
I no longer feel comfortable accepting invitations to gatherings in her home, but frequent encounters with her are unavoidable. How should I handle confrontations with her in the future? -- TRAUMATIZED TEXAN
DEAR T.T.: There shouldn't be any "confrontations." When you see the woman, be pleasant and keep your distance. If she tries to start an argument, tell her the problem is hers and you don't intend to make it yours -- period. Then, if there are others present, devote your time to them.