Tsang Tse Wai (5A)
2001

Dear Pat,
I am very worried about your problem. I think I should give you some advice. As I am your friend, I go straight to the point.

To be frank, I am also an ICQ user and I have made some new friends on the Internet too. But I don't want to run the risk of meeting them. You never know whether your friends tell lies or not. Is he a bad guy? Will he play tricks on you? Of course, it doesn't mean all the on-line friends are bad. Your American friend may be a good person. However, how can you tell he is really reliable when you have known him for just three months?

Moreover, there is a cultural difference between you and your friend. Do you know your friend's character, his hobbies and family background. Does he have enough money to go to Japan? There are lots of problems for both of you to solve. I think you should think carefully and talk to your friend seriously. At this moment, it's not the right time for you to go with him unless you can solve all the problems.

I really understand your parents' worries. They have never seen your friend and you also have never been to other countries. How can they have their mind at ease when there are so many uncertainties ahead?

I know you will be upset if you can't go to Japan this summer. But do you want to make your parents angry if you don't listen to them? There will be another suitable time. If you really want to meet your friend, you may ask him to come to Hong Kong. I think this is a better arrangement. You friend will understand you and your problems. He will not be mad at you.

Hope that I can solve your problems.

Best wishes,
Chris

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Chow Ying Chu (5E)
2001

Dear Pat,
I'm sorry to hear that you're so confused about the summer holiday and please don't worry too much.

Firstly, you must think clearly. Do you know your American friend very well? Have you seen him before? Actually, you don't know what he does in reality. So you can't say you are acquainted with him, right! Are you sure he has not harboured some evil thoughts?

Moreover, you're too young to go to Japan alone. You have neither money nor travel experience. In case of an accident, you will be at a loss what to do. Parents are always worried about their children. It's reasonable for your parents not to allow you to go with your American net-friend.

If you really want to go to Japan, you may ask your parents to go with you but not with your net-friend. When you grow up and are mature enough, you may go with anyone you like and I think your parents won't stop you anymore.

Finally, I would like to remind you one thing. Talk to your parents and ask for their permission before you make any decision. Don't think you can handle all things by yourself now or later. You must respect them because they're your parents.

That's what I want to tell you. I am looking forward to hearing good news from you soon.

Best wishes,
Chris

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