DEAR ABBY: I have read your column many times and would like your advice on a problem I have.
I am 13 years old and am a partial vegetarian (I don't eat red meat or pork), which was my personal choice. When I eat at friends' or relatives' houses, they often serve red meat.
Most of my friends and family know what I eat, but when they forget, it is often a little embarrassing for me. I feel like I'm being ungrateful for not eating what they are serving me.
Abby, is this rude -- and what should I say when this happens? -- VEGGIE IN SIOUX CITY
DEAR VEGGIE: You are not being rude or ungrateful. Do not make an issue of it. Simply say, "The salad was delicious. May I please have a second helping?" (The same goes for the vegetable side dishes.)