I’m somewhat shy, and I can be uneasy in conversations. I don’t always know what to say if there is a break in the conversation.

The keys to social dexterity are: Be friendly. A smile is an excellent icebreaker because it puts others around you at ease.

DEAR ABBY: My neighbors, across the street and two doors down, have five cars. Four are parked on the street. Related Articles Dear Abby: Can I drop this woman after years of her lackadaisical texts?

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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips.

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I had two sons, “Seth” and “Jason,” who were best buddies. Seth passed away a year and a half ago, which has been really hard on us all, but especially on Jason. Dear Abby: ...

DEAR ABBY: Our neighbors, “Wanda” and “Bob,” have agreed to care for our house and cat when we vacation. We told them we’d ...

Dear Abby: Our neighbors, “Wanda” and “Bob,” have agreed to care for our house and cat when we vacation. We told them we’d like to pay them for their troubles, but Wanda says they want to do it for ...