DEAR ABBY: I'm a sophomore in high school, and I really like this girl, but there's a problem. I never know what to say to her -- or any girl, for that matter. The right words never come to mind. All my guy friends are what I guess you would call "ladies' men," and I'm tired of everyone else making fun of me.
I have liked this girl for a long time but she's -- how do you say it -- "out of my league." I have seen her turn down guys just like me. What should I do? -- SHY GUY IN PENNSYLVANIA
DEAR SHY: Start talking to girls in general. Ask questions about school, athletic events, movies or television shows they may have seen. The more you do it, the more comfortable you will become. You don't need to put yourself on the line by immediately asking anyone out. Just try to get to know them and their interests -- and let them get to know you. If you do, your chances of a girl saying yes when you ask one out will be better.