Right advice? Wrong messenger.

I’ve been having issues with my girl and I vented about it to my friend. He said he’s noticed I’ve been drained lately, and thinks I’m foolish if I don’t break up with her since the relationship is bound to fail. But I don’t agree. I’m not ready to give up trying. He’s been in worse situations and doesn’t want me to have to go through that. I’m not saying he’s wrong, just maybe not the right messenger considering his past hiccups. What do I do to maintain both relationships positively?

Unsure

Dear Unsure,

The short answer is, you can maintain both relationships by keeping them seperate. Don’t mix company and avoid talking about your girl when you’re with your friend. However, I’m not sure how positive either relationship can be if you’re not your best self. You mentioned that you’ve been drained lately. Consider why that is and be honest. Is the matter worth the strain it’s putting on you and your relationships? If so, then work through it until it no longer makes sense for you. But don’t discount your friend’s advice just because he’s been in worse situations. After all, that could be why he sees yours so clearly. Experience counts for something, and you have the right to learn from your own. Just be careful not to let it consume you. I wish you the best.

Yours truly,
Essence