In our lives, there may be one or two people that you can always confide in, but they may not always do the same when it comes to you. Their problems may just be their problems, and in some cases, they feel like they don't want to be a burden on you or others. Those people we call our "strong" friends. Yeah, y'all know just which friends I'm talking about now. They are there when no one else can be, and they always keep it real no matter what. That may be one of the big things you love about them. 

This week and more often than not I want you to check in on them. Give them a call or a shoot them a text, but however, you choose to reach out let them know that you are there for them as well. They may not come right out there and say it, but this gesture means the world to them.

A little love goes a long way, so don't forget to check on your strong friends. Let them know that they don't always have to be strong and that it is okay to be vulnerable.  

Now if you are that strong friend it's time for you to open that big heart of yours, but this time I want you to talk more than you listen. It's never good to bottle everything up, and by talking it out with a good friend you are releasing it into the atmosphere to allow healing of whatever situation you are going through. 

T. Neal | Cambridge, MD

Disclaimer: Fenix Youth Project Inc. supports young writers and their voices and providing them with a platform to submit think pieces, poetry, short stories, and also reflect on experiences and program events. All blog posts are reviewed by the Executive Director, Amber Green. Blog posts are the opinions and reflections of writers and do not represent the organization as a whole. Questions and comments can be emailed to ambergreen@fenixyouthproject.org.