DEAR ABBY: I am 11 years old and I have a problem. When I call some of my "friends," they don't return my calls. But the thing is, they said they'd return my calls. Well, guess what -- they haven't!
The only friend I feel I actually have is my boyfriend, but I need a friend who's a girl. My mom and dad say, "Wait for them to come to you," but I have been doing it for five years. I have a little brother, but he's annoying! I feel lonely, but also like a "nudge." What should I do? -- LONELY AND BAMBOOZLED IN S. CAROLINA
DEAR LONELY: I'm sure that, at one time or another, everyone has promised to call someone and it has slipped his or her mind. However, when it happens consistently, then the promise-breakers are sending a message -- and the message is they are not "friends."
Five years is more than enough time to "wait" for people to respond to offers of friendship. Please tell your parents that the time has come to help you get involved in activities outside this circle of acquaintances -- possibly extracurricular activities and/or religious-based youth activities so you can meet girls who will be more inclusive. Boyfriends may be great, but girlfriends usually last longer.