Advice: Friends and Poetry

“Hi! I'm a student here at North and I fear that I’m in a bit of a pickle! One thing about me is I LOVE writing poems, but I HATE reading them to others. I was with my friends the other day and who I THOUGHT was my best friend forever, grabbed my diary and read a bunch of my poems to the WHOLE CAFETERIA!! Please, what should I do? I love my best friend so much. We love shopping and going to Hot Topic together, but I don’t know how to confront them about this. My heart is broken.” -Pedro 

Hey there Pedro! To start, I want to let you know that your feelings are valid- trusting someone with something as personal as your poetry, only to have that trust betrayed in a public way, must have been heartbreaking. You are in no way, shape, or form overreacting. I can’t take that feeling away, but I can help you formulate a plan to try and get some inner peace. 

Firstly, reflect on your feelings. Try and figure out exactly what you’re feeling. Are you angry? Embarrassed? Hurt? Understanding these feelings is important before taking any action. You seem to already have an outlet to cope: writing poetry. I understand if you’re scared it will happen again. In this case, it is best to write this poetry at home or maybe even in a locked note on your phone. It will not only give you clarity on your situation, but also help you figure out how to go about the next step: starting a conversation.  

Confrontations don’t need to be dramatic and emotional. You can talk to your best friend (let’s call him Dylan) and ask to go to a Hot Topic. While shopping, you can safely express your feelings in an environment you both feel comfortable in. When communicating with Dylan, try and remain calm, as anger will only complicate your emotions further. Your goal is to try and mend your relationship as best you can, not to start a fight. 

After this, take some time to reflect on whether you’re able to rebuild your trust. Maybe at the food court while getting Addams Family Burger King milkshakes and listening to My Chemical Romance. Remember, you do not have to show him your poems again if you decide to trust him once more; they’re your safe outlet.  

Pedro, even the strongest of silver chain necklace bonds have their ups and downs. You can try your best to mend the relationship, but don’t give in so much effort that it becomes a chore. You got this!  

Stay strong Pedro, 

-Aamna