Miss Manners: My friend can’t stop talking politics at our parties

Miss Manners addresses two distinct social dilemmas. First, a host expresses frustration over a friend who persistently discusses politics at parties despite requests to maintain a light atmosphere, questioning the necessity of future invitations. Second, another individual seeks advice on the proper etiquette regarding a check received as a gift from a friend currently experiencing a severe financial crisis. Both scenarios highlight the complexities of maintaining social harmony and propriety during challenging interpersonal situations.