All Stories
Asking Eric: After parents’ divorce, adult child picks sides
A recent grad can’t forgive her mom for a devastating divorce, while another reader sheds light on the science behind an unexpected romantic infatuation.
Asking Eric: Friends insist on inviting themselves over for pool parties
One reader seeks peace in her own pool, another struggles with self-worth in a lower-paying job, and a third just can’t remember if she mailed that card.
Asking Eric: I don’t want smoking in or near my home
Dear Eric: Blame it on my probably irrational fear that they could start a major blaze, and honestly, the fact that I just don't want them smoking in my yard,...
Asking Eric: Casket photo creates rift in family
A funeral photo sparks guilt, a picky traveler stirs frustration, and a gas money request tests friendship. Asking Eric offers insight with empathy.
Asking Eric: You don’t have to parent another parent
Dear Eric: A Girl Scout dad engages me constantly during troop meetings, telling me about the latest horror of his ugly separation and upcoming divorce, usually within earshot of the...
Asking Eric: Friend annoyed about taking in evacuating friends during LA fires
One reader faces a shocking comment from a longtime friend, another is crushed by her best friend’s reluctance to attend her son’s wedding. Asking Eric helps both.
Asking Eric: Husband objects to wife’s work dinners with male colleagues
A professional faces tension over solo dinners with male colleagues, while another grapples with a friend’s hurtful curiosity. Asking Eric offers honest help.
Asking Eric: Father’s questions keep offending adult daughter
A concerned parent struggles with unintentionally offending his daughter, while a creator feels stung by lukewarm support. Asking Eric offers guidance.
Asking Eric: Wife?s comments to son-in-law bother husband
Dear Eric: We are retired grandparents to 7-year-old twins who live close by. We are delighted to help with kiddo chauffeuring, grocery shopping or anything else needed by two very...
Asking Eric: Parents’ house has become free hotel for friends
Bestselling author R. Eric Thomas brings his signature wit and warmth to “Asking Eric,” an advice column tackling life's quandaries.