MILLENIUM ADVICE COLUMN
By: David Strich


Dear Strich --
      I'm really close with this girl and I like her a lot. We've gotten to know each other very well on a spiritual and a mental level and I think I want to also be with her on the physical level. What do I do to show her that I want to take the next step even though this is summer camp?
                  -- Sleepless in Starlight

Dear Sleepless -
      Obviously this girl actually has a place in your heart. Remember that this is a summer thing and it may be very difficult to keep anything after you go home. By making the personal connection you have discussed, you have already made a friend for life. Hooking up could possibly endanger your relationship. But there is one more important aspect that you must remember. The girl might only want to be with you on the friend level, so don't forget to think about her needs. Tell the girl about your feelings even though it will be hard because you'd rather let her know your intentions than wish you had always said something to her.
                  -- Strich





Dear Strich --
      I love being here at an international program. I am meeting people from all over the world and I am having the time of my life. I cant wait for IC because I will see some of my friends from home and I will have the opportunity to meet even more people. However I see people acting differently as the days get closer to IC, specifically in regards to international elections. I am beginning to feel that people are being nice to me so that I will vote for them. What should I think or do about these feelings and my situation?
                  -- Polly Ticks

Dear Polly --
      Do your best not to inquire about candidates intentions on running for I-board. You shouldn't get yourself caught up in the politics yourself, even though other eople are getting ready to find as many votes as they can. Keep your friendships and build on them especially through elections at IC because you will make those life-long friendships. If you notice your peers changing as IC gets closer, then put on your disguise and play along with them. Don't frustrate yourself worrying about what people's hidden intentions are ... take them for what they're worth at face value.
                  -- Strich





Dear Strich
      I became close with one girl over the past three weeks. I felt that we were on the "chillin" level so I started joking around. I said something offensive to her and she refuses to acknowledge my existence. I tried to appologize to her, but she wouldn't listen to me. What can I do?
                  --K. Onfused

Dear Onfused --
      Write her a letter and tell her exactly the way you feel. Open yourself up through writing and clear your mind of the situation. MOST IMPORTANTLY: do not give it to her. Throw the letter away or put it away so you won't read it for a month. By that time the situation will be over and both of you will go on to your "normal" lives. You need to get your feelings out, but be careful if you intend on speaking with the girl. Talk to her for no more than 10 minutes about it and make sure to get your point across clearly. Good luck.
                  -- Strich