Dear Bubby,
My best friend recently had her wallet stolen, which contained over $100 and all of her identification. Finally tonight the person who stole it called her and confessed, and is going to give her back the wallet tomorrow.
I know that you're probably thinking this shouldn't effect me, but it really does, besides the fact that it was my best friend's wallet. The person who stole it is someone I have known since grade school, and it seems like this act of mindlessness must be a cry for help. This person has always been very level-headed and reliable. This person is in several of my classes, and is in a position of authority in my newspaper staff. If anyone finds out about the theft, this person will face expulsion.
My issue is that, besides the thief and the thieved, I am the only person that knows. I don't know how I'm going to deal with facing this person in my classes, without showing that I know. I feel confused by what this person has done. How should I, and my best friend more importantly, deal with the betrayal of our friend?
Thank you very much for your advice, and keep up the good work.
Confused on the Sidelines
Dear Confused on the Sidelines,
This is really an unusual situation. First I would tell the "thief" to return the wallet and its contents to me in the library or cafeteria. You should not have him come to your room since you would be alone. Chances are that the money would not be in the wallet -- well that would be alright. Don't fight over it. I would not trust this person at such a time.
When you meet him in either of the above named places do ask him "WHY". Suggest he get some help -- go to a psychiatrist or if you are in high school or college he should start with his counselor. If he is stealing to buy drugs he most certainly needs the help. Don't buy the excuse that he did it just for fun to give your friend a friendly scare -- there is no such thing. Does he have a family? You have not told me much but I am very sure he need help. Make your friendship casual only.
Let me hear from you again.
0 OPINIONS ADDED
"Help Me, Bubby!" Disclaimer
By submitting a letter to this website, you grant Help Me, Bubby! permission to publish it on this site or elsewhere
including print publications. Your letter will only include an anonymous signature that you provide or that we use to
substitute for your real name. Your email address will never be included or distributed. Due to the large number of
letters received, there is no guarantee that a letter will be responded to. Any information or advice given at
Help Me, Bubby! is not intended to provide an alternative to professional medical treatment or to replace the advice
or services of a physician or psychiatrist. Neither Bubby nor her granddaughters are professional therapists or medical
experts. If you have any serious medical or mental problem, please consult a professional. Although all this advice is
offered lovingly from the heart and in good spirit, we are not responsible in any way for your decision to accept or
reject the advice or the results thereafter.