Teen braces for blowback over becoming a vegetarian.
Dear Abby:
I am a 15-year-old girl who wants to become a vegetarian. I don’t exactly know why. I only know I want to stop eating meat and choose a healthier alternative lifestyle. I also want to lose weight.
There’s been a lot going on in my life lately, so I’ve been stresseating. I don’t hate my body, but I sure don’t love it.
I’m not sure how to present this to my family. I’m sure I’ll get the annoying, “How could you give up steak/bacon/ chicken?” from my dad and sister. Mom will probably be supportive.
I realized I wanted to stop eating meat when I was eating bacon and suddenly felt like I wanted to throw up because I was eating something that used to be alive. How do I explain this to my family? Additionally, how can I then get my extended family to understand that I won’t be able to eat meat at events?
— Future Vegetarian In New York
Dear Vegetarian:
There is nothing wrong with being a vegetarian, but it is not a guaranteed way to lose weight. Half your letter discusses your lack of confidence about your body. You should definitely discuss it with someone. A counselor at school could be helpful.
Before changing your diet, discuss it with your doctor or a registered dietitian so you can manage it in a healthy way. Also, go online and start researching vegetarianism.
As to your extended family, people can have full social lives without consuming meat or causing inconvenience or discomfort to others. One simple solution would be to ask what will be served and bring something with you to eat if necessary.
Dear Abby:
I was in an on-again, off-again relationship with a woman for over a year. She was a single mother, and we took our time introducing me to her son until we were sure we were serious. The boy became attached to me, and when it ended, he continued to ask about me.
He’s 4 now, but he remembers all the things we did. His mother occasionally will let me see him for a day and then disappears for months before repeating. At first I was advised to walk away, but he never forgets. When he sees me, he gets extremely excited, and I consider myself more of an uncle/big brother than anything.
I understand the situation is awkward. But is it wrong that I answer when the opportunity comes, or should I let it go?
— Father Figure In Florida Dear Father Figure:
Listen to your heart. Seeing the boy as you have been won’t hurt.