DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was at a coffeehouse in my neighborhood on a Saturday morning when my congressional representative took a seat two tables over. I had seen him there before, but refrained from approaching him or speaking with him.

I could tell from his informal clothing that he was trying to fit in and not be noticed. But because he took a seat close by, I thought I would try to say something about a political issue that’s been on my mind.

He quickly cut me off, explaining that he was just there to eat something. I apologized and assured I would not bother him further.

I was so embarrassed that I haven’t returned to that coffeehouse. I don’t want him to see me and think that I’m stalking him. But I’ve been going to that coffeehouse for years, and he has only recently started going

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