Dear Paul B,
I am fourteen, pretty mature, and trying to figure things out. I would think that my parents could help me out, just a little bit, but they are not any help. They punish me if they catch me drinking or smoking or doing anything bad. Then, I see them with their friends over, and I ALWAYS smell pot, and even saw my mother almost naked at a party at my neighbors house. My Dad was on a business trip. I try to be a good kid, and I am a very good student, but I really don’t have reliable role models. I don’t want to be like them, but I do love them. They have always been there for me and my sis, but they are pretty immature. I sometimes think I am older than they are. My Dad has even opened up a bank account for me, and told me not to tell my Mom. How ’bout that?
Rick
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Dear Rick,
YOU, my friend, have hit home with your comments, and your life. We can often learn what NOT TO DO, from our parents, and siblings. This is very much one of those events. Anyone can become parents, you’re old enough to know why. However, many parents don’t feel that they NEED TO say goodbye to the irresponsible behavior of a teenager (present company excluded.) Therefore, Rick, you need to find an adult (that ACTS LIKE ONE;) perhaps a school counselor, teacher, Aunt or Uncle. You should continue on as you have been with your schoolwork, because this is YOUR LIFE. Please do NOT become that kid who looks for those to blame if his life doesn’t work out as planned. You are so mature, that I know you will turn a blind eye to this irreverent behavior. You might want to mention to your Dad that he should try to set a good example for you kids. I’m not sure if it will help, but he might wake up and smell the coffee. You could also write a note to your Mom about her puerile actions and indicate that you are “very concerned and worried,” about your families existence…It never hurts to tell the truth, right?
Paul B
Frank “the Tank” Ricard (Will Ferrell) reveals to his wife and counselor in a counseling session that he might not be ready for marriage when he expresses his confusion that he’s expected to be this entirely different guy.
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