Dear Eric, I have a concern about the evolving phone etiquette, especially when it comes to texting. It's frustrating when you send a direct question or comment and receive an emoji in response, or no response at all. This lack of response can lead to miscommunication and frustration, especially when it comes to important communications. It's not just about the emojis; it's about the expectation of a thoughtful and timely response. I believe this is a growing issue in modern society, and it's affecting the way we communicate. What can I do to address this? Should I start firing my friends and family for not responding properly? I'm considering it, but I'm open to other suggestions. I just want to ensure that my communications are valued and respected. - Text Back Dear Text Back, I understand your frustration. While it's not an epidemic, texting etiquette is still evolving, and we're learning how to communicate effectively in this new medium. I suggest being more specific in your texts and clearly stating what you need. For example, if you want a response about a specific topic, include that in the text. Alternatively, have an open conversation with your friends and family about your communication preferences. It's important to communicate what you want and need. If all else fails, don't text at all. Pick up the phone and call them; this way, you can avoid the emoji dilemma. Dear Eric, I have a neighborly issue. The house next door is vacant, and there's a large tree in the front yard that's overhanging my property. In the past, a tree from this property fell on my house, causing damage and leading to my homeowner's insurance being canceled due to an act of nature. I'm concerned about the potential for another incident, as the tree is old and dead branches are falling. What steps can I take to address this situation? - Neighbor Dilemma Dear Neighbor, gathering information is the first step. Contact your local tax assessor's office to find out who owns the property and their address. Be cautious of online searches; many sites will try to charge you for free information. Look for city, county, or state government websites instead. Once you have the owner's details, you can reach out directly or contact the housing authority. Many housing authorities have task forces to handle code violations. If not, a phone call can provide valuable information about available options. Send your questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his newsletter for more insights.
