This week's entry focuses, partly, on a certain friend of mine. I may speak of him from time to time, perhaps to his displeasure. I don't wish this journal to be about me, my friends, and the problems that arise when I attempt to resolve these problems in a public forum.
I have a great motive to maintain social anonymity amongst letter writers. Surely I'd rather not publicize the antics, however embarrassing, of my own inner circle, but furthermore, I don't find my advise to be particularly effective when applied to myself or my close group of friends.
It should also be mentioned that I have no credentials or training to help others with their problems, other than my own drive to do it.
-Not to over-sell myself.
The advice portion of this week's entry will be abbreviated. Readers, please consider this a sample of what is to come in the weeks and months. And remember, all names (except mine) have been changed to protect the identities of people with problems that make you be like "fuck, you got problems"). With that in mind, I give you the facebook chat transcription of the first person who's life will be forever changed by my near-godly advice:
Baby-Face McCutie -
Dear Ryland,
There's a girl you once introduced me to at our international club, that super cute Japanese woman. I know it says she has a boyfriend on Facebook, but he's on the other side of the world! It seems like she's interested in hanging out with me, and I sense a mutual attraction. What should I tell the Sexy Japanese Bond Villain?
Give a playa' some advice!
Dear Baby-Face McCutie -
First of all, never be afraid to ask someone if they have a boyfriend/girlfriend. It's not a question that should be dodged, and can save a lot of hassle and confusion.
Baby-Face, the two of you come from different worlds. Your customs are very different. If she does have a boyfriend in Japan, then you had ought to respect that. I will say than often in Japanese culture, if a man isn't performing his duties adequately, or at all, she has every right to find a man who will. That was the get your hopes up part.
Here's the advice part. She's a recent stranger to our country, and is drawn to you because you are very nice and approachable. It also couldn't hurt that you both have similar interests and good conversation. Do not ruin your potential friendship by prematurely announcing your feelings. This runs a high risk of ruining your relationship forever. Keep her as a friend, and if something is meant to happen, it will. What's the worst that could happen? You make an amazing friend, and go home with blue balls every now and then.
If you really cannot stand to be patient, and have strong feelings for this girl, feel free to profess your love to her, but if thing's haven't progressed naturally by that point, they probably won't.
Readers, the best of relationships and marriages start out when two people gradually get to know one another and eventually fall in love. Don't go out to the bar, then go home with someone and expect them to want to go thrift store shopping. Live your life, project positive energy, and be polite.
