DEAR ABBY: I just read the letter about the boy who was causing his neighbor a lot of trouble. Many years ago, I had the same problem. I was at my wit's end and decided, as a last resort, to try to make the boy my friend.
I went out of my way to be kind to him and, on occasion, even asked his advice. The problems quickly came to an end. Surely the neighbor, when gardening, could offer a bouquet of flowers to take to his mother. Wouldn't it be worth the effort to offer friendliness to help a troubled boy? -- A CONCERNED CANADIAN
DEAR CONCERNED CANADIAN: Yes, it would. Leave it to my readers to remind me that compassion is alive and well, and perhaps all that is necessary to turn this youngster around.
Read on:
DEAR ABBY: "Worried Neighbor" was bothered by a boy on her block who throws rocks, etc., but his mother never listens when neighbors complain. Now he comes and stands in front of her house and is always "starting something" with her. Although there was nothing wrong with your advice that she speak to local police or a juvenile investigator or counselor, you might also have pointed out that the mother probably never listens to the boy either, and he may be constantly "bothering" her because he is looking for adult attention. Perhaps if she responded warmly to him, difficult though that may be, there might be a more positive outcome for everyone. -- JUST A THOUGHT IN ARIZONA
DEAR JUST A THOUGHT: No need to point it out; you and many other kind-hearted people did it for me. Thanks to all of you for a refreshing perspective.