I live in a family of five, but me and my parents have a secret from my other siblings. I had another brother who was 9 years older than me named Brandon. One day, when I was 7 and he was 16, we hung out all day. It was one of the greatest days of my life--we went out for beakfast, had tea instead of lunch, the most amazing dinner and as much dessert as I wanted. We went to all my favorite stores, and he was just so sweet to me that day. The very next morning, he committed suicide. My parents never talk about him, but still make me go to see a shrink if they even think I'm depressed. I miss my brother big-time, but I know I would never do what he did. How can I make my parents see that?'

-MissingHim '

Hey girly, this is such a heartbreaking story. I'm so extremely and utterly wow-ed by your strength and maturity.

I'm sure you can understand why you're parents are so overly worried and protective. And it's undoubtedly a hard thing to talk about for them. But I think that if you are confident enough to admit that you'd never repeat such actions, then you are definitely confident enough to bring it up with your parents. Ask your parents for a little two-on-one time. Tell them how you feel and carefully explain that although you love your brother and miss him very much, you would never follow in his footsteps.

Once your parents know and see that you're an amazingly secure woman with a strong head on your shoulders, I'm sure it will ease their worries. Remember, they're only how they are because they love and care about you so much.

Stay strong,
Sharon

10/12/2007 10:00:32 AM