Friend or Foe

Friends: we all have them. They are the ones you run to for all the gossip; the ones you sit and play video games for hours with. Most importantly, they are the ones you run to for help with all your problems. It is during times of drama and misfortune when people find out who are truly their friends. When it comes to one's problems, there are three main types of friends: the "shoulder to cry on", the "psychiatrist", and the "I can't believe I call you my friend."

The "shoulder to cry on" is the friend you run to air out all of your emotions. They sit there and listen to you cry, scream, and whine; yet, they never judge you because they are one of your closest friends. This friend may not actually help you solve your problems. They are more likely there to console you and allow you to vent.

The "psychiatrist" is the friend who actually helps you sort out your problems. Although one may be looking for sympathy and empathy from this friend, the "psychiatrist" will most likely give an objective point of view of the problem. If you are in the right or in the wrong, they will be the ones to tell you. The "psychiatrist" may not always be agreeable, but in the end you know they are telling you what is best for you.

The "I can't believe I call you my friend" friend is the most detrimental confidant one could possibly have. These people are actually not your friends at all. In fact, they add more havoc and chaos into your life. The "I can't believe I call you my friend" friend is the first one to turn their back on you when a problem arises. One may also want to refer to the sub-categories of the "I can't believe I call you my friend" friend: the "gossiper" and the "instigator".

The next time you have a problem, take a look at the people around you. What kind of friends do you have? Maybe your best friend is the "shoulder to cry on". Your close cousin could possibly be your "psychiatrist". Just hope you do not have any "I can't believe I call you my friend" friends.