I’m never good enough for my mom and dad

Dear Annie: My parents don’t care about whether I’m happy; they only care about whether I’m successful. That basically says it all. They always complain about my grades and compare me with the other kids, talking about how jealous they are that the other parents have honour-roll kids they can brag about. I do occasionally do well, but they have very rarely told me that they are proud of me — especially my dad.

I’m also in the school band, on the football team and a Boy Scout, and they refuse to acknowledge my accomplishments in any field. I understand that as a sophomore in high school, I need to prepare for my future, but it’s as if that’s all they care about, and they don’t care how I feel.

I’ve started to have suicidal thoughts because of it. I just don’t know what to do. Any advice would be appreciated. Not Good Enough Dear Not: I’m proud of you for taking the time to write and ask for help. Whatever you do, do not hurt yourself. Please discuss the thoughts you’re having with your parents, a guidance counsellor or a suicide prevention lifeline (which offer confidential support). If you ever feel as if you’re a serious danger to yourself, dial 911.

Your parents seem to have their priorities out of order, but that doesn’t mean you’re not good enough or that they don’t love you. I’m sure they really believe the pressure they’re piling on is ultimately in your best interest and will

motivate you to do better.

Their idea of success may always be different from yours, but there are ways you can make peace with that.

Life is much bigger than it looks right now.

Dear Annie: After reading the letter from “Brokenhearted Mom” — who followed her adult child to a new city, only to be left out in the cold and dumped on — I was heartbroken for her. This woman’s children should be ashamed of themselves!

You only get one mom, and when she’s gone, that kind of unconditional love will be gone, as well. You just can’t replace her. If she lives anywhere near me, I would be delighted to come over on a weekend and put together her furniture.

I can just hear my mom saying it’s just the right thing to do. I lost her six years ago. If this woman is nearby, I would be willing to help her. I live in Louisville, Kentucky. Missing Mom Dear Missing: Thank you for your sweet and concerned letter. Unfortunately, I don’t think “Brokenhearted Mom” is anywhere near Louisville, but I’ve passed your note along so she knows that others are thinking of her.