Dear Carol,

I have done musical theater since I was 5 and love it. I want to try out for bigger parts in my school’s musicals, but my parents are forcing me to do marching band as well. There’s this kid in my section who picks on me (he’s my sister’s ex) and he’s part of the reason why I hate marching band. I’ve asked my parents multiple times if I can quit, and they aren’t letting me. I really want to drop it now because there’s a musical theater solo the same day as state finals for marching band. How do I stand up to my parents?

-I Want To Drop It

Dear I Want To Drop It,

As I told the swimmer below, I don’t think it’s a crime to change lanes. In fact, it’s smart to consider all your options. In your case, I’m a bit biased—I say theater for the win because I love theater. No one can do everything, but if you want to excel at an activity, choose the one you love most. Have a confident conversation with your parents (telling, not yelling), and say that you see yourself enjoying theater forever as a playgoer or producer or actor or designer or director…but that you’re no longer enthusiastic about band. Do not mention your sister’s ex, because the behavior of one annoying individual should not affect your own life choices.

Carol Weston is the author of 16 books, including Girltalk, Speed of Life and Ava and Pip. Follow her on Insta @carolwestonnyc and visit carolweston.com.

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