Dear Suzie,
I’ve been friends with “Molly” for years. Our friendship used to be great, starting out in our awkward high school years and stretching through most of university. In the past year, though, our friendship has deteriorated to the point that we barely see each other. We used to spend time together regularly, go out for coffee, go to the movies, and I could trust her with any problem or secret. I used to love spending time with her because she was one of the funniest, craziest people I knew. We’ve never had a disagreement of any type, but now it’s gotten to the point that we barely speak. Not to be an asshole, but I think it’s mostly her fault. Molly has consistently failed to show up to casual get-togethers and important events like my birthday, graduation party and farewell party, each time giving a really shitty excuse. I’m tired of being stood up and let down by her, and find myself thinking about “breaking up” with her and focusing on the friends who treat me better. What should I do?

Signed,
Friend Indeed

Dear Friend,
I’m all for dumping people who don’t deserve to be in your life. We’re given a short time on Earth, and it doesn’t make sense to waste it on so-called friends who don’t bring anything positive to the table. From the sounds of it, however, Molly is important to you, and although her behaviour is reproachable, cutting the cord right now might hurt you more than you realize. Try talking to Molly before you resort to ignoring her calls and texts. Something might have happened to make her change her behaviour toward you. It sounds like you are doing well in life and are celebrating it, which makes me wonder whether Molly is just flat out jealous of you and your success. Whatever the reason behind this sad decline in your friendship, the both of you owe it to each other to talk about it, no matter how uncomfortable it is. What I said before about having a short time on this planet is undeniable, and when your time is up, you don’t want to have any regrets.