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Elly,

Talk to John see if Micheal said anything about a change with any of his friends. Maybe someone he likes is moving AWAY. Invite Micheals friends over. they always spill the beans..I know.. You're a smart cookie. You'll figure out the reason for the fight.

Lisa, Tarpon Springs

Dear Elly,

I like you get cabin fever and bored in January. I have three kids ages 3, 1 1/2 and 2 months. I think you have to be strict with your kids so they know who is boss. If you aren't strict enough, they will walk all over you and then eventually rebel against your rules when they leave the house. You should discuss the fight and explain why fighting is wrong and then give the appropriate punishment. Hope this helps.

Brina G, Ohio

Elly, you have every right to be concerned -- and you MUST have a talk with Michael. (AT the very least that will help fix in his mind the notion that Fighting always has "Consequences".)

Given the circumstances you don't have to deliver a lecture on "The Politics of Aggression"! May I suggest something like this ?

"Fighting with someone is a terrible thing. and its never, ever really 'okay'. It might be allowed, once in a while, if fighting is the ONLY way you can keep something even more terrible from happening.... Your Grandfather went all the way across the Ocean to help fight some people who were hurting kids, and old folks, and anyone they didn't like the looks of. But that's not the same thing as fighting with someone just because he makes you feel silly, is it?"

P.S. Tell John you'll be happy to do the "Fighting" talk, if he delivers the one about "The Birds and The Bees"!

Anna M, Winnipeg

Jan.20 strip brought tears of sadness and joy. Sadness because Micheal's heart is breaking right now, joy because we know Micheal and Deanna will meet up again and marry. Thanks for your wonderful strip Lynn.

Donna M, Saskatchewan

As much as I enjoy the coffee talk, I have to say I am a bit confused sometimes now more so with Elly's letter and the resulting comments.

I almost have myself to the point to ignore inconsistencies, corded phones, etc. But if we are to regard the parents as those of the Peace Generation (as opposed to Gen X or later) wouldn't the parenting skills of the time be in place? I don't condone violence, but there are times when kids nowadays could learn to fight their own battles like we did.

Sheila B, East Hartford, CT