Dating Ex's Cousins and Standing Up to Parents: Advice Column #1

Anonymous questions from Norview students.

Q: “How should I politely inform someone about their poor hygiene?”

Personally, I would pull them to the side and tell them in a gentle way, like ‘Hey, you smell a bit’. You don’t want them to feel embarrassed, but you want the message to be heard clearly. Or if you have any hygiene products, just pull them to the side and offer them some. Now, if they choose not to accept your help, just leave them be, or they might get the impression that you’re bullying them.

Q: “How does one know if a friend likes you romantically?”

Most of the time, they throw hints out such as random compliments, staring, gifts, etc. The way I can usually tell is that they will treat you differently from how they treat everyone else. Sometimes they use direct eye contact when they’re talking to you, or they’ll give you their full attention, which they might not do for everyone else. If you like them and can’t tell if they like you, you should throw some of these hints, or you should just be brave and tell them how you feel.

Q: “How do I stick up to my parents?”

Everyone’s parents are different, so their reactions will be different. Most parents like to feel like they are in control over every situation, and when you yell back, it makes them feel like they’re losing control over you. Start calmly to get your point across. Now, in this situation, some parents will yell and talk over you. You should stay calm and continue to get your point across, and if you just so happen to start yelling back (which is normal), either try to stop yelling and continue to talk normally, or stop talking altogether. While it may seem like you ‘lost’ the argument, it’s gonna sit in their head that you have control over your life. (pray for the best)

Q: “What do I do if I like my ex’s cousin?”

Well, it depends on how bad the breakup was. I personally would not do that because it would be very awkward at family functions. I’d feel too guilty, and I’d feel judged by their family at family functions. But I definitely say go for what your heart wants.