Your ego will heal, eventually
Dr. Wallace: A guy and I dated regularly for over six months. When we first started dating, I really liked him and we had a lot of fun together. But the longer we dated, the less enjoyable it became. Last week, I decided to break up with him and I was going to tell him on our next date, which was to be tomorrow night.
Today he came over and told me that he was going to date another girl and no longer wanted to go out with me. I should have been happy, because I didn’t know how I was going to tell him it was over between us. Instead, I got upset and started crying. Now I’m still upset and mad that he dumped me for another girl. This really hurts.
To be honest, I wouldn’t take him back if he came begging on his knees, but to get dumped by him is just too much. Anything you can say to help me get rid of this feeling will be appreciated. — Nameless, Lake Charles, La.
Nameless: William Shakespeare wasn’t an advice columnist, but I’m sure if you’d asked him, he would have reminded you that, “All’s well that ends well.” Let it go at that. Sometimes our mind can invent problems where none exist. Your ego was bruised, but it will heal.
Dr. Wallace: I’m dating a guy who is a good friend. We really don’t have a lot going romantically. We just have a good time when we are together.
My best friend thinks I’m crazy. She thinks couples should date because they “turn each other on,” and she believes I’m wasting my
ROBERT WALLACE
time going out with a guy who will never be my husband. She does have a point! I know you will tell me to continue dating my guy friend. I just want to see it in print. — Nameless, Wheeling, W. Va.
Nameless: The prime reason teens date is to have fun, not to search for a mate. Continue dating your friend just as long as you two enjoy being together.
Dr. Wallace: Our high school will have a class on tobacco, dealing with the health problems it causes and showing teens who smoke how to kick the habit. The class will be required for all students and meet once a week. I’m a nonsmoker who will never smoke or use tobacco in any form. Taking this class will be a waste of time for me.
Why do schools get involved in teaching nonacademics? I’m talking about driver’s training, sex education, and now the evils of tobacco. — Julie, Chicago, Ill.
Julie: The schools educate their students in certain nonacademic subjects when there is a pressing need to do so. In the case of a class on tobacco, the need exists because too many parents have failed to educate their children at home. Personally, I’m in favor of such a class.