By PHILLIP MILANO Question Do most Christians encourage their children to explore other religions? Lauren, 18, atheist, San Antonio Replies From my experience as an ex-Catholic, no. It seems most religions . . . think they’re right, and everyone else is wrong, and if you believe even parts of another religion, you’re going to hell. A religion like that would …

By PHILLIP MILANO Question If someone is upset with you and waving their hand with fingers outstretched in the air a few inches from your face, is it considered racist to say “You need to stop going all Shanaynay on me”? Kay, white, Jacksonville Replies That would be racist regardless of what the other person was doing. Obviously the use …

By PHILLIP MILANO Question What is the hardest thing to deal with as a gay individual? C.D., Johnson City, Tenn. Replies Probably the sudden death of a loved one. However, many people have a misconception that being gay is all we are. I’m sure straight people don’t dwell on their heterosexuality (“Do these pants make me look straight?;” “I wonder …

By PHILLIP MILANO Question Why do some men attempt to cover their balding heads with a comb-over? You all would look much more attractive if you would get a decent haircut. My gentleman friend reacted like I asked him to cut off his you-know-what when I suggested he would look much better if he changed his style. Jo, 53, Fort …

By PHILLIP MILANO Question I live in an area with a large Filipino population. Most of them smack their lips when eating – and not quietly. Is this common to the Filipino culture and not considered rude? Mike, 43, Santa Cruz, Calif. Replies I am married to a Filipina. It’s cultural. Filipinos, as well as others from that part of …

By PHILLIP MILANO Question Why is it that if I’m 15 minutes late for a doctor’s appointment, I have to reschedule, but if I wait more than an hour past my appointment time, that’s OK because the doctor is busy? Alma, 48, Kempner, Texas Replies I was a waitress, and if I made people wait 15 minutes before I went …