Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 4/28/2008

Question
My friends in my ballet and point classes are always making fun of the teacher and they will lie to their parents that class is canceled when it isn't..Then I end up all alone in the class which is kind a good thing for me because i learn more but the others pick on me...What am I to do??????

Answer
Hi Bri. I don't know how old you all are and what the basis for this behavior is - but if you're getting private classes for the price of a normal class, good for you. It's too bad your friends pick on you.

Nothing is more important than your own honesty, anywhere in life. Don't be influenced by them. What they do is their business - don't spend any time or worry on it. I know that's difficult - they make pick on you more but maybe you can say "I really don't have time for this crap" and walk away. After all, if they want you to join them in lying, are they truly your friends?

When I was in school we had a saying "with friends like these who needs enemies?"

This situation will catch up with them anyway. Their parents are going to ask for a refund maybe, and the teacher is going to tell them the truth. One way or another it will come out. Facing your parents that you joined in their little game and skipped class may be a lot more uncomfortable than putting up with their picking on you.

Everything comes out in the wash eventually. And because you asked me for advice, I assume you are the kind of person who would not be proud of yourself for just getting away with something.

Good for you! I hope this works out for you. Get the most out of your private classes!