DEAR ABBY: I am generally a conservative person. My 17-year-old son, "Leo," asked for an ear piercing when he was 13. I wasn't sure whether I liked the kind of impression it made, but because it was only one piercing, I agreed on the condition that he would stop at one hole.
When Leo was 15, he begged to have dreadlocks. Thinking it was a phase, I allowed it even though I wasn't thrilled. He has since cut off the dreads, but now says he wants an eyebrow piercing.
My son is a loving, wonderful, happy kid. He's active in school, well-liked, and an excellent student in an advanced academic program. I couldn't honestly think of a good reason to say no, even though this piercing freaks me out. I sense that Leo wants to do more piercings, but he's respectful enough to wait awhile.
My question is, what is a good reason to not agree to more piercings? Every argument I've thought of -- unsightly, unsanitary, makes the wrong impression -- is rather thin.
My 12-year-old daughter wants to dye her hair purple. I'm saying no, but still have no good reason for that, either. Am I just too old-fashioned? -- NOT-WITH-IT MOM IN MACCABIM, ISRAEL
DEAR NOT-WITH-IT MOM: Tell your son he was born with a perfect body. When you agreed to the ear piercing, it was on the condition that there would be only one piercing, and you expect him to keep his part of the bargain. If he asks for a further explanation, tell him it's because he has enough holes in his head.
As to your daughter, remember it's only hair and it will grow out. If this is her only form of rebellion, consider yourself lucky.
As to your being "too old-fashioned," it's a mother's job to be old-fashioned. Keep up the good work.