Study Smart:First Aid

My Friend Joined a Gang!!

The Problem...

Dear Study Smart: My friend just joined a gang and now he's after me. Help!!!!

Ezzy, 17

Dear Ezzy -- don't go there! A friend is somebody you can trust. A friend won't drag you into trouble. A friend doesn't try to make you do things you don't want to do.

Stand strong. Say no. No to his friends, no to their ways, no to that life. You be strong, Ezzy! Stand up for you and your future. Take care of yourself.

And -- look, I hate to say this, but I think you should find a new friend. This guy's trouble. There's lots of fish in the sea. Hook up with somebody who makes good decisions for himself. It'll hurt now, but think how much it'll hurt to see him shot, dead or in jail! That's his future. Don't make it yours.

--Tessa