DEAR ABBY: I am a 13-year-old boy. My dad and I have a disagreement. I have been throwing away the lunches my mom packs for school because I don't like them and buying school lunches. I realize this was ungrateful and dishonest, and I regret doing it.
As a punishment, Dad won't let me go to one of my best friends' birthday party. I'm fine with being punished, but I think this punishment is unfair to my friend because he doesn't get to have me at his party. Instead, I think it would be better to be grounded or made to do extra chores. Who's right? -- NORMAL TEEN IN ORINDA, CALIF.
DEAR TEEN: You are a born negotiator. Instead of taking your punishment, you're trying for a plea bargain. I wouldn't be surprised if in the future you become a successful lawyer.
However, regarding your question -- I'm not getting in the middle of this one. And I'm pretty sure that this is a punishment you won't soon forget. Bon appetit!