Dear Abby: My 18-year-old-daughter, "Olympia," is a beautiful, intelligent young woman who graduated from high school last spring, was accepted to two universities and started her first job. When she lost it, she was devastated. Instead of trying to find another one, she decided to turn to prostitution. When I asked her why, she said she doesn't want to work her butt off for peanuts.

She's determined to do this. I am extremely frustrated. I have warned her about the dangers she'll face in that "occupation." I know she's of age and needs to make her own choices, but I'm afraid for her and don't want to lose her. What can I do?

-- Anxious Mom in Sacramento

Dear Anxious Mom: For an "adult," your daughter's decision-making leaves a lot to be desired. Prostitution is illegal. Is she aware that her "line of work" offers no job security and the benefits will last only as long as her looks hold up?

Let her know that although you love her, you are worried sick about her and disappointed and furious at her poor judgment because she has far more to offer than what she's selling. Warn her she's heading down a path that's hard to come back from. If she won't change her mind, then you must accept that your daughter will have to learn her lessons the hard way. But let her know your door will be open to her.

Dear Abby: Are you supposed to ignore an acquaintance when you notice she's in a doctor's waiting room with you?

This has happened to me twice recently. One time, I avoided the acquaintance; the other, I broke the silence and said, "Is that you, So-and-So?" Both times it was awkward. I can understand why someone wouldn't want to be seen at certain doctors' offices. Should I have played dumb?

-- Striving for Discretion in New York

Dear Striving: No, you should not have "played dumb." In the future, you should acknowledge your acquaintance, but refrain from asking questions. Any questions, including, "How are you?"

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