Quotes from Amy Dickinson

Love is an irrational force, making humans do all sorts of strange and wonderful things like write poetry and take up the ukulele.

[from a reader] Whenever I feel myself resenting someone, I reach out. I have made good friends that way.

If you've got a good book with you, you're never bored (or alone).

One person gets to decide if something is a problem in a relationship.

If you turn the heat down on the relationship, she will soften, the tension will lessen, and she will eventually inch closer to you. Don't go in for the hug until you achieve a handshake.

People who are combative in one relationship tend to be combative in other relationships.

Not every relationship can be altered to fit.

You must give and receive love only when doing so doesn't hurt others. That's the ethical path, and you should gain strength from walking it.

Life is weird. And guess what makes it weird? People.

If you miss one moment of enjoying your own life and relationships because you're trying to punish someone else, the bad guy wins.

Life is both short and complicated. People sometimes make baffling choices.

As an advice columnist, I spend a lot of time reading through psychology journals to ensure that I give the most up-to-date advice.

We human beings are definitely capable of loving more than one person, but it seems to go more smoothly if we don't love more than one person at a time.

Friends tell each other the truth, and then friends stick around for the aftermath.

Friends tell the truth to one another. Friends don't slam the door to correction or reflection when it is offered with affection.

You should not be hovering in the background, inflating the drama. Simply envelop him in love and affection and let him know that you will support his efforts, whatever they are.

Perspective is the enemy of long-lost love.

I believe that everyone deserves love, and sometimes looking outside your own culture is a good way to find it.

You should do what you want, but I think you should also consider wanting something different.

You should not propose marriage until you have resolved your feelings about your ex.

Unsolicited advice is always self-serving.

People don't change when they don't acknowledge their actions.

Climb aboard life's elevator, hit the "up" button, and see where it takes you.

Sometimes the way through someone's tough outer shell is to do something obvious, thoughtful and sweet.