ASK EMILY: Teenager itching for contacts, independence

ASK EMILY
Published: July 2, 2008

Dear Emily: I am 16 years old and have worn glasses practically all of my life. I hate wearing them, and some people at school do make fun of me for wearing them. I told this to my parents and begged them for contacts, but they keep saying I am not old enough for contacts. I just don’t get how age has anything to do with contacts. I know tons of other teenagers who wear them. How do I get my parents to see things my way?
— Two Eyes Too Many

Dear Two Eyes Too Many: It sounds like your parents don’t think you’re responsible enough for contact lenses, yet some medical professionals think teens are better about cleaning their lenses than adults, who become too relaxed about lens care over time. Some doctors also believe contact lenses are safer than glasses for teenagers, who could damage glasses during gym class or playing sports. Ask your parents if they would talk to your eye doctor to get his professional opinion, and perhaps he will be able to persuade them.

Dear Emily: I really enjoy writing, but I’m not sure if I am any good at it. I started blogging for fun and posting some of my short stories and poetry online. I was wondering how I could get more people to visit my site and read my stuff? I’d love for people to leave feedback and to let me know if I really have any talent.
— Readers Wanted

Dear Readers wanted: Promote your blog. If you’re using something like Facebook to post your work, make lots of friends, join different networks, and write things people will want to share. Also consider Search Engine Optimization (SEO) tactics and write about topics that many people are likely to type into a search engine. Another idea is to post on blogging sites especially for writers, like AuthorTree.com. Finally, read other blogs and leave links to yours if it is a related issue.

Dear Emily: I have been having some pretty bad luck lately. My boyfriend cheated on me, my hours got cut back at work, and my roommate is getting on my nerves more than usual. Sometimes I just want to vent about things to my best friend, Stacy; it feels good to complain. But every time I say something negative, she constantly tries to cheer me up and tells me to look on the bright side. I know she means well, but her peppy personality is really agitating sometimes. Am I wrong to just want to let off some steam once in awhile and be in a bad mood, or am I just being petty?
— No More Ms. Nice Guy

Dear No More Ms. Nice Guy: Good friends cheer you up by being positive. But let’s face it; it’s also nice to hear your friends join in on your ranting and validate your bad mood by saying, yeah, your life really does stink right now. As long as you don’t over do it, venting about your troubles can be a good way to release tension. So when you just want to gripe about your day, ask Stacy if she could hold off on the pleasantries and just be a good listener.