I know this isn’t a sexy or even remotely enjoyable subject, but I could really use your advice. I’m an 18-year-old girl, though I can easily pass for 25. I’m pretty attractive (though I think everyone has things about them they would change), thin, and altogether relatively normal, although I graduated high school early. As a result, I have plenty of opportunities to go out with guys. My problem is this: Although I’m not in any rush to lose my virginity, I can’t even bring myself to take my clothes off in front of other people because of the long, self-inflicted, crisscrossed scars that cover parts of my legs. Yeah, I know: I should see a therapist. Well, I’m already in therapy and have been since I was 12. I’m not crazy, and I’ve been making great progress.
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–Sometimes Looks and Speech Hurt
And I do think most guys will be understanding about it. People have a way of forgiving and/or overlooking imperfections in people they’re attracted to. Also, part of dating and mating is making yourself vulnerable to another human being, putting your trust in them, and showing them your literal–and figurative–scars. Any guy you show and tell will want some reassurance that you’re not cutting yourself anymore, that you’ve gotten some help and are not made of glass, and that you’re looking for a boyfriend, not a therapist. You can provide all that.
As for Stripes taking care of her kid before running off with a stretch-mark fetishist, at six months her kid might be just starting to sleep through the night. And after six months of being a mom, she’s probably ready to indulge in something for herself. All parents can use an outlet, and sex is a fine one in my book. –Stripes Thrill Me
