|
|
 |
Dr. M is the author of five advice books for tweens and teens. Her latest is Where Should I Sit at Lunch? The Ultimate 24/7 Guide to Surviving the High School Years. She enjoys dancing, reading, working out and talking with young people about the issues that concern them. She holds a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology.
|
Liz, a first-year college student, is the co-author of three books: Ask Dr. M and Liz; Getting to Know the Real You: 50 Fun Quizzes Just for Girls, and Girls: What's So Bad About Being Good? She loves to dance, paint, make collages, hang out with friends and, of course, give advice.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dear Dr. M & Liz,
I had a silly little fight with my best friend and we had never fought before. It wasn't even a big fight, it was so silly, and since then my whole life has changed. We barely even look at each other anymore, let alone talk, and she has found herself a new best friend and group of friends, whereas I feel as if I have nobody. I have friends, but not close friends, and her new best friend hates me, and she doesn't really like me either. I have pretended that the problem doesn't bother me, but it does. It's all I can really think about. What will I do?
—Angela, 15, Colorado
Dear Angela,
When a relationship is strong, one fight shouldn't destroy it. In fact, sometimes, arguing is healthy, allowing each of you to discuss your real feelings instead of keeping them all bottled up inside. It's time to talk to your best friend—the sooner, the better. Sometimes, fights get out of hand. You or she might have said things you now regret. Even though you barely look at each other, find a way to tell her how you feel and that you hope that your friendship can be repaired. If your friend was using that "silly" fight to end the friendship, she won't take you up on your offer. But if she, too, wants to mend the relationship, she'll jump at the opportunity you're handing her.
—Dr. M
Dear Angela,
You need to let your best friend know how you feel. Since she won't talk to you anymore, you could try writing a letter to her instead. Explain your side of the fight and tell her that you're sorry and really hope that you can become friends again. If she doesn't respond well to your letter, then it might be time to try to find some new friends, just the way she has.
—Liz
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
