He says ... She says...

He Says...

You would think with Valentine's Day coming right around the corner I would condone any relationship that sets hearts fluttering. But that is incorrect in this particular situation.

Frankly, I agree whole heartedly with your friends and I would be there right along with them in teasing you about this apparent crush that is not only a year younger, but also the same age as your little brother...Chew on that for a second.

Now I'm sorry if I'm coming off a little rude here, don't get me wrong, I enjoy it when people catch that love bug in the air. I'm not that cold- hearted either to shoot down your idea so quickly. I have a significant other and I know how easy it is to want to jump into something when you are attracted to someone.

However, I have a few things I think you should take into account before making up your mind on this matter. Not only is this boy a year younger than you, but on top of that he is only in seventh grade. There may only be a year difference, but the maturity level between an eighth grader and a seventh grader is enormous. Especially when you consider that girls are known to mature much quicker than boys. Don't get me wrong, dating someone younger is not a crime. In college it is completely acceptable and even in high school under most circumstances. But let the boy grow up first! He is way too young, and if you did start to date him think about the way high school kids would make fun of you for dating an eighth grader. Sorry, it's not going to work.

Andrew

She Says...

Why are you having second thoughts? Who do you want to please -- yourself or your friends? If you say yes, and decide to go out with this guy, your friends will have no choice but to accept your decision. If they are unable to accept your decision and tease you, you may realize that your friends aren't really that good of friends to you. Friends should be able to accept you unconditionally and want for you what makes you happy. If they do not, I wonder what they do want. Could they be jealous of the attention you are receiving from this guy?

It is quite common and acceptable for girls to date older guys, so why is it unacceptable to date younger guys? I think you should follow your hearts and feelings. You can't tell your friends who to like and they can't tell you, but you can tell them that you need their support and request that they stop the teasing.

I suggest you give yourself permission to say yes and to stop worrying about what other people think. No one can live your life for you; you've got to take charge of your own life. Good luck.

Sue

P:S : This is an old article from The Hindu which I came across again online. And it is so apt for the beginning of this month. Hope you guys liked it. :)