DEAR ABBY: I am 12 and have bad problems at school. Whenever I'm behind, can't figure out a problem or just want to get it done, I cheat.
I'm home-schooled, and my mom is my teacher, which means the answer books are in my "classroom." I have tried to stop, but some-times I can't resist the temptation.
I have asked Mom to lock away the answer books, but she won't. There-for I continue to cheat. What should I do? -- CHEATER IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR CHEATER: Quit cheating, reorganize your time, and get extra help with your subjects if you need it. It is vital that you understand that when you cheat, the only person who gets cheated is yourself. Yes, you can "ace" a test -- but if you haven't learned the material, you will eventually pay a penalty.
Take another look at your letter. It contains two errors. At some point you will have to take responsibility for your actions -- and from my perspective, the sooner you do it, the better off you'll be.