Dear Dr. Lovemonkey,
My boyfriend and I are each 16, but he is really self-conscious. He thinks that he’s ugly and not good for anyone, and he won’t listen to me when I say it’s not true. He won’t go out in public, like to the beach. What can I say to him that would state the truth (that he is hot and stuff) without sounding too dramatic?
_Janie
Dear Janie,
Tell him he’s ugly, and that you love him because of it. You adore ugly. Tell him how you make such a great couple because you’re both ugly. Suggest going to the beach and showing some attitude to all the really beautiful people hanging out there. Ugly is the new beautiful. Beautiful is just so yesterday.
Get a clue
Dear Dr. Lovemonkey,
How can I tell if a girl likes me? I’m married, and she knows I’m married. She has a boyfriend.
_Jerry the Clothes Guy
Dear Jerry,
I don’t know why you are “the clothes guy,” but I’ll take your word for it. You are to be commended for this unless, of course, you live in a nudist colony, which would make you an irritating jerk. So, you’re married and she’s got a boyfriend? And you are keen to have me help to bust up your marriage and wreck her romance? Can’t do it, won’t do it, and I suggest you quit your hound-like ways and work on your marriage. See ya.
Fast forward
Dear Dr. Lovemonkey,
I am a dating one of my very close longtime friends. I want to know how I should act toward her now that she’s my girlfriend and not “just” a friend. Anything from the obvious stuff to the complicated material will be greatly appreciated.
_Stefan, 23
Dear Stefan,
You’re off to a great start. That you two are already friends is terrific. You’re not going to change a whole lot, and she’s not likely to change a whole lot. The thing to remember is bringing more romance into your relationship. Flowers, remembering to do something special on her birthday, not forgetting important moments from your past, and things like Valentine’s Day — these are the things that you should keep in mind. Be thankful that you already have a relationship as friends. It’s a big good thing.
Timing’s everything
Dear Dr. Lovemonkey,
How can I tell if my boyfriend is ready for marriage? He has been taking my ring off of my ring finger (on my right hand) and putting it back on, but he will hum the song played at weddings while doing this. Is this a sign he’s serious?
_Elaine in Narragansett
Dear Elaine,
I have no idea what the hell it means. Of greater importance is gauging whether are ready for marriage. Do you believe that you love him? Do you believe that he loves you? Forget about these obtuse signs. Spend time together and talk a lot. The answers to your questions should become clearer with time. Right now, it seems that neither of you is communicating at top level with each other.
Email the author
Dr Lovemonkey: rudycheeks@prodigy.net.
