As someone who has an advice column of my own, I feel particularly sad that one of the most insightful and influential advice columnists — Pauline Phillips (Dear Abby) died earlier this week. As a tribute to her wisdom, and life, here is one of her favorite responses:

Dear Abby: Are birth control pills tax deductible? — Bertie

Dear Bertie: Only if they don’t work.

For more about the life and contribution of Dear Abby, see this article.