Dear Annie 8/24

Dear Annie: I am a 27-year-old man who needs help. Recently, I met a guy via the internet. We hit it off and have a lot in common. In addition, he lives in the same state that I do. I’ve seen pictures of him, so I know what he looks like. He even gave me his phone number. I want to call him so we can stay in contact.

The problem is that I’m on the same phone plan as my parents, and they are the type of people who prefer face-to-face meetings and are wary of meeting people over the internet. How do I get them to understand that not all people you meet on the internet are bad people? – Different Generation

Dear Different Generation: You are not going to get your parents to change their minds about the internet; and, to be quite honest, their fears have some merit. There are some really bad people online. At the same time, there are plenty of wonderful individuals who have met their future spouse online. Don’t worry about convincing your parents. Just live your life and be smart and safe, and consider paying for your own phone plan.

Dear Annie: Last year, a reader wrote in about intermittent fasting and how it has changed her life. I discovered fasting after reading her letter to you and have had much success in losing weight and staying healthy. I would like to tell “Healthy and Happy” thank you. – Grateful

Dear Grateful: Congratulations on your weight loss. Thank you for your letter, for sharing your success and for giving “Healthy and Happy” a shoutout. I am hopeful that “Healthy and Happy” will read this. And, in that same vein, I’d like to thank all of my readers who are willing to share their lives – the good, the bad and the ugly – with strangers. You never know the positive mark you can make.

Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.