Being The Squeaky Third Wheel
For a single heart on a college campus, the month of February is a constant reminder of his or her single status on Facebook. In the throes of the bitter cold of winter, it is only natural to want to bunker down with someone special to watch re-runs of The Big Bang Theory. Some Februarys you may find yourself comfortably or uncomfortably riding solo, but you may also find yourself sitting next to your best friend watching The Big Bang Theory, along with her special someone.
No one ever really wants to be the third wheel. Your friend wants you to come to the new Nicholas Sparks flick with her and her boyfriend, but you feel awkward accepting. All that entails is you sitting through a couple hours of sappiness while your best friend holds her beau’s hand and you double fist your Swedish Fish and oversized soda. As we all know, boyfriends and girlfriends often come and go in college, but friendship is what will get you through.
Whether your motto is “bros before ho’s” or “chicks before dicks,” friendship trumps. Where romantic love is exciting and fun, friendship is like that security blanket or teddy bear from your childhood, the one you never outgrow. Where things often change, friendship can help keep a smile on your face through the rollercoaster of life.
So even though an invitation to the new Nicholas Sparks movie from your best friend may feel like a pity invite, there’s always more to it. It may not be the most comfortable night of your life, but it’s the recognition that your friendship is important to her. At the end of the day, when she’s had a long week, you’re the one she is going to call for a girls’ night in with Ben and Jerry’s and Say Yes to the Dress. So at times you may feel like the squeaky third wheel watching The Big Bang Theory, but know that you are the wheel that makes your best friend feel grounded.