DEAR ABBY: I am 14 and will attend a private high school in the fall. Both of my sisters were star athletes at the same school. I am gifted in both academics and athletics, and I'll be taking two honors classes.
My dad recently pointed out that I am required to play a sport. I believe if I do, I will be too stressed out and my grades will slip. He wants me to be this "super child" that I am not and go to Harvard. Everyone who knows me overestimates me. How should I approach him to tell him how I really feel? -- PUSHED TO MY LIMITS IN ALBUQUERQUE
DEAR PUSHED: If you're unsure about your ability to carry the load, approach your father as you have approached me. However, before you do, I wish you would take into consideration that participating in a sport can be an effective way of releasing stress -- including academic pressure. If sports are a requirement at your school, there is a good reason for it. So please, at least give it a try. If it's too much for you, talk to your parents, as well as your counselor at school.
P.S. As to "everyone who knows you overestimating you," has it occurred to you that you may be UNDERestimating yourself?