Dear Uncle Gary, I recently started dating a guy who’s sweet, smart, and has the kind of jawline that could slice deli meat. But...

Dear Uncle Gary,

I recently started dating a guy who’s sweet, smart, and has the kind of jawline that could slice deli meat. But here’s the thing: he claps when the plane lands. Every time. Loudly. With enthusiasm. I tried to ignore it, but last week he stood up and said, “Great job, Captain!” like we were at a Broadway curtain call.

Is this a red flag, or am I just being petty?

Signed, Turbulence in Aisle 3

Dear Turbulence,

First of all, let’s take a moment to honor the jawline. A good jaw can make you overlook a lot, questionable playlists, suspicious cologne choices, even the occasional “I love The Big Bang Theory” confession. But clapping when the plane lands? That’s a bold move. That’s a man who treats Delta like dinner theater.

Now, is it a red flag? Not necessarily. It’s not like he’s booing the pilot or trying to start a wave. He’s just... enthusiastic. And maybe a little performative. But let’s be honest, we’ve all got quirks. Some people hum while they eat. Some people say “anywho” unironically. Some people still wear cargo shorts.

The real question is: does this bother you because it’s embarrassing, or because it feels like a mismatch in how you both move through the world? If you’re someone who values quiet dignity and he’s out here giving standing ovations to basic transportation, that’s worth noticing.

But if it’s just a moment of cringe in an otherwise lovely relationship, maybe let it go. Or better yet, lean in. Next time he claps, whisper, “Encore!” and see if he gets the joke.

Because love isn’t about finding someone who never claps. It’s about finding someone whose clapping doesn’t make you want to fake a medical emergency.

Best Regards, Uncle Gary