Nothing is more humiliating than showing up somewhere you aren't wanted. I don't know what's worse: being told outright that you aren't welcome or experiencing that combined feeling of social awkwardness and dread that can only come from being unsure whether your presence is desired. Now that I'm an adult, I would much rather be straight-up told that someone doesn't want me somewhere than languish in uncertainty. 99% of being a teenager is hearing people around you making plans and hoping that because you're standing near them, they will remember to include you, too. By all accounts, that is torture, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone.
While being direct about someone not being welcome is preferable, it doesn't take the sting out of rejection. One father recently took four of his daughters to a birthday party they weren't invited to, and when the birthday boy's mom broke the news to them, she faced some criticism from other parents.
While being direct about someone not being welcome is preferable, it doesn't take the sting out of rejection. One father recently took four of his daughters to a birthday party they weren't invited to, and when the birthday boy's mom broke the news to them, she faced some criticism from other parents.
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