Annie (AKA Hey Terra!) has been around long enough to have experienced a lot of what Life can dish out. But, it hasn’t been so long that she's forgotten what it's like to be your age. Check out some of the thousands of email questions teens from around the world have sent to Terra. You may learn something useful from her answers:
Parents:
“My parents don't approve of my guy because of his color.”
Hey Terra,
Yes, I got this guy I like and my parents don't approve because he is a different color. But, he is sweet and I don't go out with him because all of the hassle he causes. But, I really like him cause he is just the best. I mean he treats me like a queen. I never felt this way about anyone before in my life. I really love him and I don't know what to do.Terribly Confused
Dear Terribly Confused,
You're absolutely right, when it comes to choosing friends, the only thing that should matter is a person's character. I admire your values. Stick to them!
Unfortunately, because you are a minor child who still lives with her parents, you need to accept their rules (even though you know their attitudes are racist). If you have discussed this issue with your parents already and they are not willing to reexamine their attitudes, then there isn't a whole lot you can do at this point. If they would permit you to invite your friend over (as a friend) so they could meet him and get to know him, that might help. Otherwise, my suggestion is that you maintain the wonderful friendship that you have at school and if the dating question comes up, tell your friend that you need to obey your parents, even though you don't agree with them.
In friendship,
Terra
Need some advice? Write to Terra.
She'll give you a straight answer you can trust without any lectures.
Facebook
