Dear Stranger,
I am hoping to ask my crush to Sweethearts, but I am terrified. What if they say no? I feel they and I have gotten really close over the past few months, but I worry that I have been reading it all wrong. What should I do?
-Beating Around the Bush
Dear Beating Around the Bush,
Gosh, you’re in a tough spot. It sounds like you have a really wonderful friendship with this person, and I can guarantee that your fondness will not be met with disdain. A stranger that I spoke with advises that “if you ask and they say no, it’s okay, because if they are worth [having] in your life it will all [turn out].” Being vulnerable with your feelings is no easy task. I recommend that you take plenty of time to reflect on what you truly desire from this situation. My stranger wants to remind you that in the worst case, “it might suck for a minute, but there are lots of fish in the sea.” Unfortunately any kind of emotional healing is not ever going to be that easy, but if you are able to put this all into perspective I think it will be for the better. In the end, do what feels right. I’m all for taking a chance, but it is up to you.
Sincerely,
Stranger
Dear Stranger,
Sadness always seems to find me during these cold and dark winter months. I am hoping you might have some recommendations for ways I can lift my spirits.
-It’s Snowing Sadness
Dear It’s Snowing Sadness,
I hear you. It’s absolutely frigid outside, and we hardly ever see the sun anymore. If it is any consolation, you are not alone in your sadness. I met a stranger who is very proud that you recognized your struggle, and encourages you to remember “that this is a time meant for slowing down.” They advise you to “stay involved and make plans with your friends.” You could even have a movie night! I hope that despite the challenges you are facing, that you can find it in yourself to stay connected in your relationships. When I am feeling sad, I have found it to be helpful just communicating how I feel with someone I trust. My stranger recommends that you “make time for the things you enjoy,” and hopes that maybe something “as small as listening to music or eating something yummy,” will warm you up this winter.
Sincerely,
Stranger
