Have stayed single after breaking up with gal I love

Dear Diana,
I am 18. Recently, I was in a pretty serious relationship. I loved this girl and did everything to keep her happy, but her parents did not agree to the relationship.

They forced us to end it and break all contacts between us. Before I met this girl, I was a playboy. I moved from one girl to another very quickly like it was no big deal and I never really respected women. But this girl changed my perspective on relationships and we were together for a long time.

I have changed as a person. We had great plans. I tried to approach the girl again, but the family quarrel came up again. I have made up my mind that it's over, but it's really tough for me to move on. My confidence is low and I cannot imagine myself with anyone else. Usually, I am very good with girls, but this time, I have stayed single after the break-up and not got together with anyone though it's been a long time now. I can't concentrate on anything now. Is there a solution to this?

Name withheld

Dear Friend,
I think you are giving up on her too soon. You say you two really loved each other, but yet you say you've made up your mind that it's over. It's not necessary that just because you've broken up, you need to hook up with someone else. Take up a hobby or find something you are good at.

Maybe you could help out the underprivilegedu00a0-- teach street kids or help the elderly. When you do something for someone, your confidence will increase and you will start feeling better about yourself. Then you will be able to concentrate on the other aspects of life. Also try and figure out if you really want to get back with that girl. You are only 18 and your first love need not be your true love.

My son has to do something he hates

Dear Diana,
The very thought of caged animals traumatises my son, but his school has organised a trip to the local zoo. The students are expected to write an essay on their trip and they will be given marks for it. How do I explain to him that sometimes, he has to do things he hates?

Myra

Dear Myra,
Convince him that you are totally on his side and you understand what he's going through. Then try and talk to his teacher and see if there's anyway he can not go on this trip. Maybe you can explain the positive side about zoos ufffd safety for animals who may have been hunted otherwise, regular food and good nutrition, etc. Be there for him when he needs to talk and he'll be fine.

In love with the bridegroom...

Dear Diana,
My best friend of 10 years wants me to be his best man at his wedding next month. There was no way I could say no, so I agreed, but the trouble is that I am gay and I am in love with him. He is straight and has no idea of my feelings for him, though he is aware of my orientation. He has always supported me throughout college and was there when I broke the news to my parents. I want to be there for him on his big day, but I can't stand there and watch him get married. Am I being selfish?

Name withheld

Dear Friend,
No, you are not being selfish. You are being honest with yourself, recognising your weaknesses. What you need to do is ask yourself if you are strong enough to be selfless. There are often occasions when life puts your friendship to the test. Tell yourself that you are strong enough to do what you want to do and will not let your feelings come in the way of being there for your friend. Look deep inside you and find that strength, because though your friend may not hold it against you if you don't make it, you will do so for the rest of your life. I am sure you don't want to look back and have regrets, so go ahead and get fitted for that suit.