Worrying

I'm worried about a friend. It started small. A red flag here or there. But, I'm growing increasing concerned about him. I've been losing sleep over it.

It's a precarious position because it is a new friendship. I care about this guy and I am extremely concerned for his future.

Having said that, where does my responsibility begin and end regarding his personal safety and happiness.

Working at a homeless shelter, I have learned a lot about drug use. It is my belief that a large majority of the people who end up in our shelter have a drug abuse issue. By majority I mean somewhere in the neighborhood of 90%. Of course that's an oversimplification and doesn't take into account the many other issues they face. But, drug use and abuse seems to be the glue that connects them.

So when my friend begins to exhibit warning signs of drug abuse, I take it pretty seriously. I just don't want to over-react or wreck the friendship with him by discussing the issue.

So, for now, I just sit here worrying about him.