I would have been more than happy with an expensive but excellent steak, but this was the worst steak I have ever eaten. Before you think I’m just spoiled or dramatic, my jaw was too sore to finish it (I ordered a 4 ounce filet mignon). Even though no one else’s meat was as tough as mine, the consensus among our group of six was that the food was bad.
We used to frequent this place before, but now no one wants to go back unless they change it to pizza. (Unlikely, as the restaurant’s pizza oven was removed as part of the renovation.) Plus, it’s not an area where people would expect fine dining: it’s a farming community in 15 minutes from a small town.
Anyway, the owner of the restaurant, who we met several times, came and asked how the food was. I was too embarrassed and confused to tell him the truth – not even a very kind attempt. Being honest would have seemed very negative and rude, but isn’t it also wrong to lie to someone whose business is at stake? If I were that restaurateur, I would probably want someone to be honest with me. Did I display bad manners?
Bad manners I spat out this tiring meat and told the owner it was horrible. Polite, but honest comments would have been: “Well, we miss the old pizzeria, but we wish you success in your new venture.” » Miss Manners would hesitate to add: “…and find a meat tenderizer.”
Dear Miss Manners: I was diagnosed with a (most likely) terminal illness. I continue to work, because it is not yet debilitating. However, I have to take time off work for tests, treatments and other medical appointments.
I informed management because they noticed I was using a lot of PTO. Well, one manager told another, who told another, who told a team I work on… Everyone seems to know it now. It’s uncomfortable to be treated like I’m fragile. People ask me: “When will you receive permanent disability?” or “Have you tried nutrition and herbs?” and similar questions.
When I respond like, “Thanks, but that has nothing to do with our work. Can we return to the planned discussion? » that stops him, but I’m still angry and hurt. Can you suggest anything else to say or do?
Maybe add, “I assure you that when I am unable to perform my duties, I will let you know. In the meantime, please, let’s all go about our work.
New Miss Manners columns are published Monday to Saturday on washingtonpost.com/advice. You can send questions to Miss Manners on her website, missmanners.com. You can also follow her @RealMissManners.
