My boyfriend and I went for lunch at a busy sit-down restaurant; and while we were eating our lunch, a lady with a small baby changed her baby’s diaper on top of the table. She had what looked like her mother and her sister with her. We spoke to our waitress who promptly went to the manager, and he told the lady that he felt she was out of line. And he asked how was he to seat someone at that table when she left? He also came over to us and told us that he was sorry, and how shocked he was that anyone would do that. What was that mother thinking? No one else seemed to notice this either. And what was wrong with her mother?

- Disgusted

Babies get special exemptions from polite social behaviour but parents do not. Some accidents can’t be helped, but purposeful unhygienic actions such as this are rude and obnoxious. Since every sit-down restaurant must, by law, have a washroom nearby, this diaper change on a surface where food is to be placed and in view (and smell) of other eaters, falls into the category of Parent Entitlement Behaviour, which has unfortunately gripped too many new parents in our society. However, that young mother may have acted impulsively, without thinking about anyone or anything but her baby’s needs; hopefully, the manager’s comments set her straight for the future. As for the grandmother, I’d bet she was embarrassed. Let’s hope so; then maybe she’ll diplomatically impart some old-fashioned wisdom and thoughtfulness to her daughter for her new role.

I could really HATE my parents sometimes. They’re ALWAYS siding with my sister and it doesn’t seem that they even notice me. Even if I continually advise them about it. Whenever we get in an argument the verdict is always the same: I'M the flawed one, not her, and lately it’s been getting worse. I confronted my parents, but they said they don’t pick sides and that they are perfectly equal with us. This is untrue, though they may not be aware of it. I’m sick of being 'wrong' and deprived and robbed of my pride.

- Fed Up

There isn’t an honest person who didn’t at one time feel that their parents’ treatment was unfair; but the good news is that you only feel this way sometimes. It’s also clear that you have a relationship in which you can speak up to your parents and they’ll listen to your opinion. They may not always agree, but they nevertheless hear your feelings. Trust me, parents who are willing to listen are also good parents who’ll try harder not to seem unequal with their children. If you are the older sister, they may be expecting more responsible behaviour from you, and though this may be feel like a burden sometimes, it’s also an opportunity for more independence, if you live up to those responsibilities. Then, you’ll see changes in their responses to you, over time. Growing up happens in stages, and your parents are watching your increasing maturity. On the other hand, if you are the younger sister, you may feel like you’re being held back from things your sibling is allowed to do. Again, your parents’ willingness to hear you out is a very positive sign that you do have a voice in this family, and so long as you are reasonable, they’ll respond. Whatever your position in the family, focus more on your own goals in school, and in activities, and less on competing with your sister. It’s clear that you both already have your parents’ full attention and love.

I have a crush on this girl at school but don’t know how to ask her for a date. I don’t know if she likes me or not. She seems to be looking at me sometimes, then looks away. I teased her about something recently, and she’s acted mad at me ever since.

- Unsure

Teasing is often negative, so it’s not a great way to get closer. The only time teasing works is after you’re both comfortable with each other, trust each other and can use joking around as a way to share private humour. For now, be positive with her and talk about things you have in common, like a class you take together; also show your interest such as by asking about what music she likes.