Hey Rosie!
September 11, 2015

My BFF is a thief and has no problem with it

Hey Rosie.

I went into a store with my BFF and I saw her take an earring that was on display on the counter. When she was done, she tried to take a head band and asked me to put it in my bag! I walked off and out of the store. I couldn’t believe she was doing this. When she came out she was upset that I had walked off and when I asked her why she was doing it, she said why not? Rosie, this changes how I look at her and I don’t think I am comfortable hanging around her. Do you think I am being harsh?{{more}}

Sticky Fingers

Dear Sticky Fingers,

Yes, I agree with you. I would totally look at her in a different light as well. She is, unfortunately, getting a major thrill from shoplifting and doesn’t care if she gets caught either. This is like a scream for help and it’s a bigger situation than your current friendship. There is something going on behind the scenes in her life that you may not be even aware of that causes her to do this.

I am going to tell you that you should tell your mother about what happened. I say this for two reasons: 1. If you are ever in her company (you should limit that) and this happens again, your mother/parents would be able to step in and speak up for you because you, made them aware of this situation. 2. I think your mother might be able to speak to her mother and make her aware of what is going on with her daughter. This is where an adult can step in to try to get your friend some help and set up some boundaries for her. I know that you would not want to snitch on your friend, but know that if she is not stopped this will only go from strength to strength and one day she will land in a big mess!

My advice is that you can be cordial and pleasant with your friend, but I wouldn’t hang out with her in stores etc, because you run the risk of becoming guilty by association. Your friend needs help; I give you a lot of credit for knowing right from wrong.

Rosie

Send questions to Rosie at: heyrosie24@yahoo.com or PO Box 152,

Kingstown, St Vincent & the Grenadines