There is this person who wrote an offensive article about a trans guy at my school and joked about tumblr social justice warriors and I don’t know if they know that they’re a little problematic. What do I do?

Regarding the article mentioned in the question, I would like to apologize if the entirety of it came across as anything transphobic—that was not my intent in whatsoever. Through the process of writing the feature, I attempted to show the protagonist in the best way possible. Because of the backlash received from the article itself, I do want to give my apologies to Ben and whoever else was affected by the story.

Now despite the circumstances, anybody who causes such negativity in any sense should be removed from your livelihood. There are multiple ways to approach someone who you view as problematic, such as:

• Quietly hating them from a distance.
• Drop them from your life and work towards moving on.
• Confront them and talk through the emotions.

Now all routes are completely acceptable, but do understand that any decision taken regarding the person has effects that ultimately impact you. Say you choose to quietly hate him/her, take into consideration that all you’re doing is harboring anger for someone else. You’re only destroying your own happiness by possessing such hatred in your heart—you’re anchoring your heart down by these emotions.

If you choose to confront this person, I suggest you rid yourself of all hostility beforehand—the meeting in this case is merely to discuss emotions of what you believe are wrongdoings he/she has committed, not to lash out and cast shade. I guarantee attacking this person will only result in even more anger, separation and perhaps hurt feelings. My advice to combat these emotions would be to prepare what you want to ask and say prior to the actual meeting.

Deleting the problematic person, in my opinion I would expel the negativity from your life in order to save yourself from a downward spiral; it’s not fair to you. Simply block all communication with him/her and resume your life instead of focusing your energy on being angry. You shouldn’t have to waste your breath on anyone. All in all, any of these directions are suitable; it is your decision regardless of the outcome. Good luck and I wish you all the best.

How do I not be so awkward in basically every social situation? I’m just so awkward and I make every situation gross. I just never know how to respond to anything.

First of all don’t over-analyze any conversation ever. Just talk to people like you would talk to your best friend. Secretly everyone doesn’t know what they’re doing in life, yet they act like they do.

Stick your hand out, introduce yourself and let the conversation flow. Don’t be afraid to laugh and tell stories about your life or even ask a simple question about the other person. Being someone who lives a tragically uncomfortable life, I’ve learned that tactful conversation isn’t fun or interesting. I mean as long as you’re not being a completely Class-A jerk, just be honest and speak your mind.

If you need some conversation sparkers ask questions like this:

• What kind of music do you like?
• Do you do anything fun, cool or interesting/What are you into?
• Have you seen any cool movies or read any cool books.
• How was your week/weekend?

Now with the awkward situations, you have to laugh at yourself and realize that those uncomfortable moments always make for a great story. Situations are only as awkward as you make it, so if you’re all spazzy and weird and feel uncomfortable its going to be obvious and reciprocated by the other person. Take a deep breath and just talk and say whatever you want. Have fun and enjoy your new friend.

So if you’re in a relationship, it’s okay to browse as long as you don’t shop right?

It’s A-OK, to an extent. I mean if your significant other is a complete B from apartment 23, I suggest browsing in silence. You don’t want another Chernobyl/World War happening; your partner WILL drop an atomic bomb on you and destroy not only the relationship, but could even end your social life.

It is totally acceptable to check out the menu as long as you don’t order. But just because you can browse, doesn’t give you the right to cat-call or fantasize about the specials. ESPECIALLY NOT OUT LOUD. Let’s be honest here, it’s high school, anything you say or do will get around. One last word of advice, if you don’t feel comfortable with your significant other “browsing,” then you definitely shouldn’t be doing it.