Friend bows out at the last minute
June 12, 2012 1:22PM
Updated: July 14, 2012 6:07AM
Dr. Wallace: Teri is my very best friend. We are closer than sisters. We always go to a movie together on Friday nights and have a snack afterward. I have a boyfriend, and he understands that every Friday is “ladies’ night out.”
It was Teri’s 18th birthday last Friday, and we had made plans that we would go out to a nice restaurant (my treat) for dinner and then to our movie. I even called the restaurant for a reservation.
Well, the birthday celebration didn’t happen because she called a half an hour before we were to meet and left a message on my cellphone saying, “Hi, Margo. Mike just called and asked me to go with him to a fraternity party, and he’s picking me up in half an hour. You know I have a big crush on him, so I said yes. I know you’ll understand. Love ya!”
She’s still my friend, and I love her, but I don’t understand how she could do this to me after we made big plans. Should I discuss her rudeness with her, or should I pretend that “I understand” why she skipped spending her birthday with me?
Margo, Miami Beach
Margo: I find it odd that Mike waited so late to get a date for the frat party. But Teri should have told Mike, “Thanks, but I’ve already made plans to spend the evening with my best friend, but please call me again.”
She is still your closest friend, so do your very best not to be “catty,” but continue enjoying a marvelous friendship. Getting on her case could put a dent in the friendship you both share. That is not necessary and would serve no good purpose.
Write to Dr. Wallace
at rwallace@galesburg.net
