DR. WALLACE: My 18-year-old brother is planning to join the Army after he graduates from high school. Mario has not been a very good son or brother. Our parents divorced three years ago and we have lived with our mother and our grandmother since then. Mario has caused nothing but trouble at home, at school, and in the neighborhood — most of his problems are caused by his big, sassy mouth. Even though he has been mean to our mother, she doesn't want him to join the Army. I'm thinking that the military discipline is just what Mario needs. What do you think about this? — Rosa, McAllen, Tex.

ROSA: The military has an outstanding record of turning sassy-mouthed recruits into disciplined young men. I think the Army could be the best possible option for your brother. As a bonus, he'll learn a useful trade and when he's discharged, and he'll receive many veterans' benefits.

OUR RELATIONSHIP IS GETTING STRONGER

DR. WALLACE: I'm 17 and have a super boyfriend who is 21. The age difference is no problem and we have a great relationship. We are interested in the same things and are very compatible.

My problem is that I told my parents in the beginning that my boyfriend was only 19. I was worried that, if I told them the truth, they would never let me date him, and I knew he was a great guy. I didn't want to risk losing a chance to go out with him. It made my boyfriend angry that I lied to my parents. I feel bad about that too.

I have learned a lot from him and our relationship is getting stronger every day. Last night he told me he loves me and I think I love him, too. I don't want to continue living a lie, but I don't want anything to happen to a sensational relationship. What should I do? — Nameless, Elkhart, Ind.

NAMELESS: A family discussion is in order and your boyfriend should be present as well. Tell Mom and Dad the truth — that your boyfriend was upset that you told them he was 19 instead of his true age. Apologize to them and allow your boyfriend to tell your parents how he feels about you. Then you can say your piece about your relationship with him and ask your parents to please allow you to continue seeing him.

Be courteous and pleasant, and do not get into an argument with Mom and Dad. Hope for the best, but abide by their decision if they tell you to break off the relationship.

EX-SMOKERS FEEL BETTER IN TWO WEEKS

DR. WALLACE: I'm 19 and have been smoking for five years. For the past two years, I've been smoking 2 packs of cigarettes a day. I really want to quit because I'm starting to have a steady cough and, at times, I have pains in my chest. I know it's not cancer, but still, the pain and cough bother me.

How long would it take me to overcome my smoking habit 100 percent if I stopped the day I read your answer in our newspaper? I'm very serious about ending this dreadful habit. — Megan, Moline, Ill.

MEGAN: You are making a very wise decision. Not only will you feel better when you stop your smoking habit, your financial situation will be greatly improved.

The American Lung Association says that smokers will start feeling better within two weeks of quitting their smoking habit.

Dr. Robert Wallace welcomes questions from readers. Although he is unable to reply to all of them individually, he will answer as many as possible in this column. E-mail him at [email protected]. To find out more about Dr. Robert Wallace and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

Photo credit: re:publica