Dear Amy: I am 16 years old and a junior in high school. I seem to be involved in a never-ending supply of drama -- teenage and otherwise.
Last year I went through a series of painful episodes, including watching my parents finalize their divorce, the loss of a close relative and stress from the pressures of school and friends. My life was ultimately a bit of a mess, and I had trouble focusing on my relationships with people dear to me.
As a result, I ended my relationship with my boyfriend. I still had feelings for him but didn't think it would be fair to continue a relationship.
Life seemed to slowly progress to normal. We're still in the same group of friends, and we recently started discussing the prospect of getting back together.
Unfortunately, I just learned that during the summer while I was at camp, a really good girlfriend of mine became interested in my boyfriend. I know that she called him and that there was some drama between them -- but I don't think they were ever romantically involved.
People are taking sides, giving me (often bad) advice, and generally the chemistry with my friends now feels kind of explosive.
I'm not sure what to do.
Am I wrong for feeling betrayed by my friend -- or am I overreacting?
Should I forgive my ex? Basically, I just don't know what to do.
-- Unsure Teen
Dear Unsure: You might be overreacting -- and your friends might be nudging your reaction into the red zone by being gossipy and dramatic, but you are responsible for your own reactions to things and the consequences of your own behavior.
Let this lie.
It is understandable that you would be upset over all of this, but it happened, it's over and it's time to forgive, forget and move forward.
Dear Amy: A teen wrote to you, concerned that her uncle was taking advantage of her grandmother. As a social worker who has worked with Adult Protective Services, I feel you missed an opportunity to help the teen's elderly grandmother.
The grandmother is being harassed and intimidated by her adult son into giving him money. He is "calling her constantly," and she is "taking out loans for him."
This is harassment and elder abuse. The uncle must be reported to the local police or to Adult Protective Services.
-- Margo
Dear Margo: Although there was no information in the original letter that the grandmother in question was elderly, I agree that financial coercion and abuse are extremely serious issues, and that anyone who suspects this type of abuse should report it. Thank you.
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