Dear Bella and Samantha: This all started two years ago when I broke my leg at soccer practice. This happened while playing a game called bangers only, in this game two teams of five players have to win the ball behind the middle of the playing area, along with having to shoot behind the halfway point. At this point part of my lower shin was already in pain from previous over use, the ball in use was over inflated and it was cold outside. The other team had the ball and another player was setting up for a shot on my goal. Reacting quickly to block the shot I stuck my leg out, when the ball hit my shin guard at a weird angle, this resulted in a fractured shin. Since then everytime there is a 50/50 ball, I am hesitant to play to the fullest of my abilities the same way I had before my injury. I want to get back to the way I previously was before such a life changing event. Any advice?– STUCK IN PAST
Dear STUCK IN PAST: You appear to be going through the struggle of many athletes along their careers, and I understand that it has affected your playing style. Although this was such a life altering event for you and your sport, you cannot let that stop you from getting back to playing. Use this moment as motivation to come back better and stronger than ever before. These moments are tests to display if you are willing enough to work through them and become the best version of yourself as a player and a person. This is why I suggest to practice skills you feel nervous about in your free time with friends to rebuild your confidence in your abilities in playing to help get back to your previous playing ability.
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Dear Bella and Samantha: I’ve been friends with this girl since sophomore year. We’ve become much closer over this year and have begun to start talking. With homecoming coming soon I would like to ask her to go with me. However I want her to go with me as my date, not just my friend. I’m extremely nervous to ask her because I don’t want to make things awkward or have our friendship end because of the feelings I have. Is it worth taking the risk to know how she feels or should I push down my feelings and only ask her to go as friends?– HOMECOMING PROPOSER
Dear HOMECOMING PROPOSER: It is extremely clear that your feelings for this girl are very strong. It is understandable to be nervous about your feelings, however if you really want this girl, we say go for her! The only way to find out how she feels is to take a leap of faith and ask her. Never push your own feelings to the side to protect a friendship or relationship. Nothing will come easy in life—especially not relationships, so take the risks necessary. Gestues like this show how much you care for the girl and the effort you are willing to put in. Remember you miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take! Remember this advice for dances in the future!
