Advice Request

This person's best friend likes the same girl that this person likes. They have been "stepping back" for their best friend for two years, but they aren't sure if that's exactly the right thing to do.

Hey hon,

I can tell you're really torn up about this, and I completely understand why. You aren't dumb enough to think that no bond will end up being severed over what will eventually occur here, and I'm very sorry to say that I'm glad that you see this.

Now, this could go two ways for you, and I'll outline the pros and cons of both. I do want to tell you that the final decision will always be up to you.

One, you choose to pursue a crush that you have had for quite some time, but there are two ways this can go wrong. She can either reject you, or she could accept you, and then you will end up breaking up. Two, you choose to leave her for your best friend, but it's either that he mans up and goes for her, or you two eventually lose contact with her altogether and move on. You must be the one to choose what is most important to YOU. A friendship that can last for a very long time until your old or a crush that might blossom into love; which do you prefer?

I hope that I have, at least, clarified what is at stake for you because I can never influence your life in such a way by telling you my personal opinion; I'm sure you understand. As always. . .

Love,

The Advice Column Team