Dear Grandpa,

Three years ago I dropped out of school. I had a job in a fast food restaurant. Now I have been promoted to night manager. The pay is pretty good but there is no way I can afford an apartment on my own and a nice car.

I can see now that I need more education to get a better paying job. Problem is I can't afford to stop working to go back to school. My parents say I had my chance before and messed-up, so I'm on my own. Any suggestions?

Lamar

Dear Lamar,

We all make mistakes. The only people who never make a mistake probably never do anything.

Try to explain your situation to your folks. Tell them you made a mistake. They may ask you to work part-time while you are getting an education. Don't disappoint them.

If that doesn't work, come up with some options: higher paying job, night school, sharing rent with a friend or friends, doing with a not-so-nice car. If you want to do something badly enough, there will be no stopping you. First, however, talk to your folks. Be open. If you are trying to better yourself, they'll probably go along with you.

If you have a question, send it to this paper: Dear Grandpa (paper's name and address.) Or you can e-mail direct to grandpatw~@juno.com.