recluse,

You are truly a sweet and compassionate person. I know the thing you are talking about and the only thing I can say, and it is NOT an excuse, because there is none, just an explaination.

The jerk to whom you refer is a child. A 13 year old child that has no concept yet of how much his insensitivity can affect other people. He has not learned to communicate in a positive way, or even to just say I need help. To him negative attention is attention just the same.

I understand your anger, hurt, and frustration. You deserve to be able to come in and get the support you need, just as you give others the support they need.

The boy does need to follow the rules. He did not and he was wrong. He also needs to learn that when he says something it has consequences, this is life, not a game. I am truly sorry that you happened to be the target of his need for attention. I am also very sad that there is a 13 year old boy that has not learned to communicate or the concepts of civility, compassion, or respect for others in the room.

In any event, I am really really sorry that you had to go through this, especially at a time when you were trying to relieve stress and what you got in return is more stress.