How do I let him down nicely?

Question

A guy that I only know because our parents visit every summer told me he loves me through a message on myspace. O_O I only like him as a friend/acquaintance. How do I tell him that as gently and nicely as possible?!

Answer 1

In the first place, "my space" is a rather rude and public forum for letting you know his feelings.

Still, just because he is rude does not mean that you have to be rude in return.  Rudeness should not be spread or reciprocated.  Rudeness should, simply, stop.

Regarding your question:  Just email him to say that you don't have the same feelings for him.  Remind him that the nature of your acquaintance is the result of your parent's relationship, not because of yours and his.  You don't have to apologize.  You only have to be matter of fact.  You can also point out if he expects to continue ANY acquaintance, he should stop any further advances.

It needn't be any more complicated than that.

In the meantime, be ready to tell your parents about what he has done.  Certainly, if he mentions these feeling to you, again, you MUST tell your parents.  You don't do this toward an end to getting him in trouble.  Tell your parents that you just want him to stop.  They may need to step in to protect you from a potential stalker.  Better to discourage him now, BEFORE his next visit.  If the boy has a problem with this and takes it badly, it is NOT your fault.  At some point HIS parents will have to deal with it.

Only time will tell if HIS problem spoils the friendship between his family and yours.  But you don't need to carry the burden of an unwanted crush or your parent's issues with the other family.

Answer 2

Just tell him straight up. If guys think they have a chance, they wont give up.