Dear you,

Don't take this the wrong way, but leave me alone. Please. When I say leave me alone, I don't mean ignore me. I don't mean you need to constantly look the other direction. What I mean is you need to stop priding yourself on your count of those that like or want you. Whether it's in relation to kissing, being "just friends," whatever.

I'm not telling you this because it only affects you. I'm saying this not just because of the idea that girls are only things to be won or gotten, but because it affects me too.

First off, it makes you look bad.

Secondly, it's harmful, for you and me.

I'm not saying that it's a bad thing to be liked, or to like, but that isn't what determines my worth. And it definitely doesn't determine yours either. That's not the way it ought to be. I'm not saying that I base my worth in others, but I shouldn't have to deal with this. And neither should you.

What I am saying is that the only way we can change the culture is by stepping up. Self-worth isn't based on other people. It's a choice and a decision to believe that you're good enough. Even when you seem to be the friendless loser. Even when you don't think it's true. It's true, you just need to believe it.

You don't determine my worth, and I certainly don't determine yours. It's a lot of pressure to be the measure of someone's worth. So let's do ourselves favor and stop this. Let's leave this alone.

Sincerely,

The one who wants to speak up