Q: My friend and I have been close for a long time, but now all she can think about is guys! I feel shut out because I’m not going out with someone. It hurts me to see her so much more concerned about her outside appearance than what’s inside. I want to still be her friend, but part of me isn’t so sure. What do you suggest I do? Do I love her for who she is, or do I leave her in the dust?

What a great question! The teen years are famous for friendship trouble because it’s a time of life when we girls change our personalities almost as often as our clothes. We’re trying to figure out who we are and who we want to be. I do hope that your friend “grows out of” the boy crazy stage sooner than later, but in the meantime, I think you’re wise to question whether your friendship is what’s best for you right now. You can still love her for who she is without being as close of friends as you were before. I don’t think “leaving her in the dust” is necessary (grin), but I would consider spending less time with her, and more time with friends who encourage you to be content without a boyfriend (because the last thing you need right now is to feel guilty for not having one!). If your friend asks you why you haven’t been as available, tell her the truth. And if she goes on to ask you for help in keeping her eyes focused on God instead of boys, then do your best to be a good example.

Love