I am in love with my best friend, but the problem is that she's a girl too. I've been in love with her since the 8th grade and it rips me apart each day knowing that I can't tell her how I feel. I tried avoiding her for the last year, hoping that I could rid myself of the feelings and we havent spoken till now. We are friends again but those feelings still have not gone away. What's more complicated is that she has a crush on my brother. I cant help but think that she's only talking to me to get closer to him.

I'm so confused. I know she will never feel the same way about me and I just don't think I can live knowing that. Please help me.
Signed,
Lost, 15, Los Feliz CA

Love is just about the most wonderful thing in the world when both parties feel the same way and they are able to express their feelings openly to each other. When that’s not the case, it can be one of the most painful things in the world! Most people—regardless of their sexual orientation—experience what you are going through at some point in their lives: unrequited love. That’s why so many songs and poems are written on the subject. It hurts and it’s no fun and there is nothing you can do to just make it go away—but it does get better in time, I promise! It can help to try and focus your attention and your energies onto activities that give you pleasure and people who support you and treat you well. And it may be best to avoid interacting with this girl right now—especially if you think she may be talking to you primarily to get closer to your brother.

You can go on living and your life does have value, even if she never feels toward you what you feel towards her. If there is no one in your life you feel you can talk to about this, we hope you will contact our helpline (1-866-4-U-TREVOR). Someone is always available there to help you understand all these difficult feelings. Please don’t hesitate to call.