December Dear Rambo

Dear Rambo,

How do I know if I have real friends?

- Concerned Classmate

Dear Concerned Classmate,

Someone once said, “they’re only your friend if they will bring you to the airport or help you move,” and while these one-off examples aren’t the only things that define what a friend is, they are exemplary of what a good friend can be.

Navigating high school can be a tricky time, but having friends to share the journey can make the path much easier. During such an important time, one tip would be to form relationships that will last long after you graduate. Many pop-culture references show that high school is completely based on social hierarchies and exclusive cliques. While having a diverse student body can be a good thing, it’s hard to know where exactly you may find your niche. One way to make this easier is to look at our extensive group of clubs and organizations to help you find peers that share your passions.

If you’re struggling with the fact that your friends aren’t as supportive as they once were, the best means of addressal is to just talk it through. Treat the situation like any other conversation. Another way to make sure your friends have your best interests in mind is to see how often they are present and actively listen to you. Clearly, if they offer advice and check up on you from time to time, it seems like they truly care for your well being.

Among all others, I’d say the biggest factor of having true friends is that they encourage you to be a better person. Someone who constantly makes the relationship a priority and is willing to bring out the best in you. There’s a saying I always think of with questions like this, “You're the average of the five people [you] spend the most time with.” A motivational speaker named Jim Rohn shares this message, reminding us to surround ourselves with positive influences. Though it might take some time and reflection, a reevaluation might just be what is necessary to build stronger relationships.

Sincerely,

Rambo