Does High School Behavior Ever Really End?

Recently, I was talking to a friend of mine who was upset because of some gossip that had been going around about her and now people won't talk to her for things she "supposedly" did. While I have no idea what the real story is, nor do I need to, I just had to laugh because we both commented on how "high school" - like this was. The thing is nobody has ever talked to her and asked her for her side of the story, and trust me she is the type who will DEFINITELY tell you. (She's not one to hold back on her true feelings.) Believe it or not all of the people involved are in their 40's.

It made me think about my own life and people that I know and my own behavior. Currently, I have (or had) someone in my life who I thought was a close friend. In high school we did almost everything together and now she won't talk to me. It's hilarious since I haven't talked to her much since graduation and recently when I tried to email her she has ignored any attempts on my part to try and catch up with her. Since I haven't talked to her in four years or even seen her since she returned from her mission, I can't think what I have done to offend her but obviously I did something. It would be nice to know so that I can make ammends. However, it's her choice on how to handle it, so I need to respect that. Oh well. I still think she is fabulous and successful.

I just have never understood the fakeness or the "you can't be my friend, because you play with so-and-so" garbage. I have always been one to let people know how I feel or what I think. I just don't believe in being fake or pretending to be friends when you aren't. If I say I am going to do something, I will do it or let you know why I can't. There is no reason to lie and get some one's hopes up when I have no intention of follow-through.

Bottom line . . . if you want to be someone's friend, then be their friend to the fullest! If not, that is fine as well, just don't make promises you do not intend to keep (My personal fave: "I'll call you," and then never do.) or give pretenses that you are their friend when you aren't. Just be real. Be your own best-self. Treat others as you would want to be treated. That is what people will admire and appreciate the most.