Write to Mita

Write to Mita

Dear Mita,

I am in a dilemma. I have been working at an NGO for about 5 years now and have recently come across some documents that show that this organisation has been laundering money they receive from their donors. I have a copy of these documents in my possession now, but since I've developed close relationships with the director and my colleagues I feel terrible using these to get them into trouble. However what they have done is unethical and they should be reported. What should I do and how should I go about doing it?
Troubled.

Dear Troubled,
Whatever relations you have developed, there should be no compromise on ethical issues. The funds that NGOs get from donors are meant for the poor and vulnerable people of this country. No one has the right to launder it and use these for any other purpose. It is immoral and unethical. You should talk to your director and show him/her the documents you have. Funds should be returned or else the donors should be informed.

Dear Mita,
I am 16 and am really messed up! First of all I am not happy with my grades as they are going down day by day. I want to get the highest marks in my O Levels but lack of concentration is not letting me do so. Second, I think I am odd looking and fat! What will I do? I want to talk to someone who can understand me. I am really frustrated with everything. Please help me.
Upset

Dear Upset,
Being 16 is tough. You are neither a child nor an adult. For some adolescents this period is especially difficult. First your grades-- You should be in control of this and improve it. There is no reason for an intelligent person with a good education to get into this situation. Better grades will boost your self-confidence and motivate you towards achieving higher goals. Regarding your physical appearance. We are all born with certain physical traits, we cannot change those. However, we can certainly improve them and one of these is our weight. You should get into an exercise routine and control your diet. Most importantly, value your self and get out of this rut you are getting into. Life is too precious and beautiful to waste.

Dear Mita,
Let me just start by saying how much I love your work. I read your column all the time and am a big fan. I am an eighth grade student. In my class, everyone is friendly and I get along with them very easily. But when it comes to pairing up with someone for a project etc, I have no one as the whole class is already paired up and I am left alone. This upsets me and makes me realise I have no close friends in my class. And sometimes when the whole class plays a game together, nobody asks me and I am left with the nerd group, the guys whom nobody appreciates. I want to be a part of their activities too but am not sure if I should just get involved without anyone asking me or just stay with the other half. Please help.
Left alone

Dear Alone,
Thank you for the appreciation, I often wonder if I am reaching anyone at all. This is a common problem among people your age when you feel neglected by your peers. I am sure many in your group have faced the same situation. You must try to do something that will make you stand out and be recognised. It may be in sports, music, extra curricular or studies. Friends at this age are fickle and tend to go to those who offer something special. I am sure as you gain more confidence this problem will subside and there will be many in school and outside who will seek your friendship.