INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Everybody brings their own, potentially drama-inducing imperfections to a friendship. Learn what causes you pain in a relationship and what your reactions are. For example, a friend not spending time with you or talking behind your back might prompt you to get angry and yell at them, or you might clam up and refuse to talk about it. No matter what your tendencies are, be open about them with your friends. Say, for example, "I know I have a quick temper and I'm trying to work on it. I don't want it to come between us or our friendship." If you're mad at a friend for canceling dinner plans, give yourself time to cool off and then apologize. Don't let the anger or hurt feelings fester. Your friend's action might be the source of the drama, but your reaction might not be helping either. Learn how to overcome your own tendencies and how to confront others about theirs. When an issue doesn't involve you directly, it's best to stay out of it. It's alright to offer your advice or act as a mediator, but don't let yourself get bogged down in the drama. For example, if two of your friends are fighting, agree to hear them both out and offer your advice, but don't take sides. Say, "I understand where you both are coming from and see that you're upset. I love you both equally and I want to help by telling you how I see it." The best way to avoid drama and gain perspective is to keep your own personal goals in mind. When you feel tempted to get involved in drama, take a moment to assess how much it matters in the larger scheme of your life. You may realize that it's best to leave the situation alone. For example, if a friend at work is spreading gossip about coworkers, participating or encouraging them might jeopardize your job or even your ability to find a new position. Avoid the temptation to join in by reminding yourself that this job is an important step in your career. Ignore the gossip, or politely but firmly ask them to stop.

SUMMARY: Confront your own shortcomings. Own up to your mistakes, even when it's difficult. Avoid involving yourself unnecessarily. Focus on your own goals.

In one sentence, describe what the following article is about: Let them know that this is no joking manner. Use forceful language, and be assertive. Leaving notes is not as good as initially confronting your parents to let them know you want to talk. Set a time and day with them. You do not want to bombard them with information, but rather, set aside a particular time in which serious discussion can take place. Don't: mention the piercing yet. Give them time to wonder what it's about, and most parents will end up relieved.Do: say "I want to talk to you about something serious. It's nothing bad, but it is important." A great place to have a serious talk is in a living room or a bedroom. Dim the lighting so as to not distract. You also want to make sure your phones are off and put away. The T.V. should also not be on, which can be a major distraction as well. Make sure that you and your parents are seated close together so the talk isn't awkward. You might want pillows around, which can feel better when you sit down. You want yourself, and your parents to be as comfortable as possible. You can list off your academic success, events you have volunteered at, or family members you have helped out. This is a great way to break the ice, and show your parents what you have achieved. This will ease the conversation into something more controversial like getting a piercing. After you have your parents warmed up, and reminded of your good deeds, they may be more receptive to what you are about to ask of them. List all the A's and B's you have received recently in school. Tell them about the book reports you have written. Tell them that you are helping other kids with their schoolwork as well. Volunteer activities, such as at a blood drive, or cleaning a road, show your parents that you are a responsible young adult. Don't: go on for more than a few sentences, which can sound suspicious.Do: move on if your parents ask what this is about. Either read from your prepared statements, or speak from memory. Use your arms when you speak as to show emotion and engagement. Use clear, logical sentences. Remember to stay on point, and do not stray into other areas of conversation. If your parents interrupt, remind them that they will have a turn to ask questions later on. State your argument, give evidence, and then repeat your argument again. Don't: talk over your parents or patronize them.Do: say "I know you have questions, I'd just like to tell you the details first." Crying, weeping, and/or frowning shows your parents that you are unable to handle your emotions and, therefore, not mature enough to get a piercing. You want to be calm, cool, and collected. Speak with heart, but don't let it get to you. Present yourself as a clear thinking, rational adult, whom has facts to back up his/her argument. Give your parents the pictures and pamphlets you have collected. You can either disperse them individually as they come about during your argument, or give them to your parents at the end of your talk. Point out which item is which so that your parents are not confused. You want them to come back to these materials later on and know what to expect. If you want, you can read the pamphlets with them, or let them read and then ask you questions. The conversation is not one-sided. You want to get your parents engaged in a dialogue. Every time they ask a question, have a clear response ready. If your parents sense weakness, or a lack of research, they will seriously doubt your readiness to get a piercing. If you do not know an answer, you should refer them to specific websites where they can find the answer they are looking for. Do not leave them wondering, with doubt in their minds.
Summary: Tell your parents you want to have a serious conversation. Sit them down in a comfortable space. Begin by describing your achievements. Lay out your case. Avoid irrational behavior and emotions. Present your parents with materials. Ask your parents for questions and/or responses.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Name it "Con" but don't press enter yet. Hold down Alt and type 255 and Alt+0160 on the number pad, then press enter.

SUMMARY:
First off, use the numbers on the number pad, not the ones at the top of the keyboard. Create a new folder.