Go out there and grab some life

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

Whenever I get assigned to a group project at school, I always end up doing most of the work. The other kids always slack, but I need the good grades, so I work extra hard.

In the end, we get a good grade, but mainly because of me. It isn't fair.

I feel like I'm going to explode I'm so mad.

-Ranting in Raleigh

Dear Ranting,

I always hated group projects in school. Oftentimes I found myself in the same situation you're in. Bottom line: if getting good grades are of as much importance as you say (which is smart if you want some scholarship money to help with the ballooning costs of college), then do whatever it takes to earn top marks.

As for your concerns, have you discussed them with the other members of the groups? Perhaps they don't realize they're contributing so little.

Have you discussed the situation with your teachers? Perhaps you're overestimating the work needed for an 'A.'

Have you discussed your feelings with your parents? Using them as a soundboard will help you to vent frustration -- as well as to alert them that perhaps a parent-teacher conference is needed.

But don't wallow in sadness or resentment. You get no where that way, young poppet. Work hard, go out into the world, and make magic happen. (Out there, somewhere, you'll find groups within which it's a joy to work.)

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

My boyfriend left me a few months ago and ever since I have been so sad. I know I shouldn't be. He was not a very nice person and, at the end, we did not really get along well. Sometimes it is hard just to leave the apartment.

What do I do?

-Sad in Seymour

Dear Sad,

If he didn't treat you like the princess you are, he's a schmuck. He doesn't deserve the attention you're giving him.

The death of any relationship can seem overwhelming. Talk to someone, anyone -- a friend, your parents, a therapist. They can help you to get through your remorse.

There's a big, bright world filled with life outside your apartment, dear. You need to walk out and grab some of it. One day, you'll find true happiness again.

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

My friends have been trying to get me to go skydiving for a year now. They tell me I never take any risks -- "this will loosen you up," they say.

I can't make up my mind about it. What do you think?

-Scared Samuel

Dear Samuel,

I could tell you to go do it, you'd hurt your back, and poor Meniscus here would get sued for everything she owns (though a lot of good seventeen cats, a wicker chair, and a box of Rice-a-roni packaged circa 1978 would do ya').

I bungeed near Gatlinburg, Tennessee once and it scared all that is holy and sacred out of me. I swear my heart left my body somewhere along the ten-story drop. And I loved it.

Granted, jump only because it's something you'd enjoy, not to please your friends. And if not this, make sure you're out there doing something else to enjoy life the best you can. It's too precious to waste.

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