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Reader's Painful Sores Spark Beard Ultimatum Dilemma

10/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In Slate's advice column, a reader with painful sores faces an ultimatum to grow a beard or risk losing her attention.
The advice stresses the importance of a partner's kindness and support.
The columnist questions the girlfriend's behavior, noting it contradicts her wonderful status.
The reader is urged to refuse the beard and observe the girlfriend's reaction, reflecting on whether she cares for him.

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Story summary

In Slate's advice column, a reader with painful sores faces an ultimatum to grow a beard or risk losing her attention.
The advice stresses the importance of a partner's kindness and support.
The columnist questions the girlfriend's behavior, noting it contradicts her wonderful status.
The reader is urged to refuse the beard and observe the girlfriend's reaction, reflecting on whether she cares for him.