Why is it difficult to avoid trying to solve other’s problems during a conversation? what can you say instead of offering advice?

It is difficult because you are either an empathetic person and hate seeing people have problems because it hurts or frustrates them and that distresses you. OR you're an overly smart person and just want to solve everything that you see. What you can say instead of offering advice is offer to listen to them or to ASK if they want some help with something or if they just want to talk to you. Sympathize with them during the conversation, or give cues that you're listening and offer a hug if they look like they need it.  

Sometimes they will accept a suggestion if you ask if they want one. But if it's inappropriate just listen and focus on how to comfort them rather than solve their problems right away.  

the correct answer is d. in john paston's letter written friday, 14, 1476, he expresses his fear that he may have to go to war.

indeed, although the black death was ravaging europe, the pastons were relatively safe from it due to their social status as they were part of the landed gentry. it is clear that the vast majority of the victims of the pandemic were the poor. the reason why he is weary of having to go to war is because at the particular time england was also devastated by the war of the roses and paston, being a courtesan was inevitably involved.