Student longs for the hometown left behind

Dear Abby: I recently moved from the U.S. to Germany. It has been a big change, and I don’t know how to handle it. A lot of the kids at school make fun of me and call me names.

My family plans to stay here another two years. My parents say that when/if we move back to the United States, we won’t return to our hometown. I find this very hard to accept because it was the only home I’ve ever known.

I don’t want my family to worry about me since my mom is working hard going back to college, but keeping my feelings bottled up inside seems like the wrong choice. Should I tell them honestly how I feel or keep crying into my pillow every night?

— Lost and Depressed

Dear Lost: Tell your parents everything you are experiencing — that you are being bullied at school and made to feel you don’t fit in, and that you miss your old hometown terribly. They might want to consult with the school administrator.

Geographical distance does not mean you must lose relationships forever. While moving back to the town you left may not be practical, you can keep in touch with your friends online and may eventually be able to visit them.

Dear Abby: A beautiful flower arrangement was delivered to me today. While on the phone, I told my friend about the thoughtful gift and mentioned that my two cats wouldn’t leave it alone. She said, “I hope there aren’t any lilies in it!” There were, Abby — white oriental lilies. I Googled it and discovered they are very poisonous to cats. Your readers should know! — Loves My Felines

Dear Loves: Thank you for sharing!