Real answers. Real talk. Good advice. No eye-rolls.
Hey fam, I’m Aunt Abby—your go-to for real talk, good vibes, and advice that actually hits.
I’ve spent years studying people (professionally and casually). I’ve got a sixth sense for reading between the lines. From brain science to heart stuff, I’ve been deep in the human experience—and now I’m here to help you make sense of yours. Think of me as the chill aunt who listens without judgment, gives honest answers, and totally gets that life can be… a lot. This column is your space to be heard, vent, laugh, or ask the big questions—no judgment, just real talk and thoughtful advice from someone who gets it. So drop your questions. I got you. 💬🫶
Question 1:
Absolutely—here’s Aunt Abby’s reply, blending empathy, warmth, and a Gen Z-friendly voice:
Dear Suzie,
First of all—thank you for writing. It takes guts to say, “Hey, I’m feeling this way,” and I want you to know you’re not alone. A lot of people—way more than you probably think—feel exactly like this, especially in 9th grade when everything’s shifting.
Now, about those groups. I get it. High school can feel like one big lunchroom scene from a movie, where everyone has a “place,” and you’re stuck holding a tray wondering where to sit. But here’s a secret most people don’t tell you: you don’t have to fit into a group to find your people. Start small. One connection. One real convo. That’s how real friendships begin.
Here’s what I’d do:
- Find a space where people gather around something you actually care about. Whether it’s art club, drama, robotics, music, anime, volunteering—whatever sparks your interest. When you’re doing something you enjoy, it’s way easier to find someone who vibes with you.
- Be brave enough to be friendly first. I know that sounds backwards when you’re feeling alone, but even a “Hey, is anyone sitting here?” or a “I like your backpack” can crack the ice. Most people are waiting for someone else to make the first move.
- Look for the other ‘floaters.’ There’s a good chance someone else feels just like you—kinda in-between. Smile at them. Say hi in the hall. That one moment could be the start of something.
And finally, Suzie—you’re not broken, you’re becoming. The people who don’t fit into perfect boxes? They’re often the most interesting, creative, and kind-hearted souls out there. Keep being you. The right friends will find you—and they’ll be lucky to have you.
With love,
Aunt Abby
💜✨ Real talk. Good vibes. Always here for you.
Question 1:
Dear Aunt Abby, I am in 9th grade and I have a problem. I don’t have any friends. There are so many different groups in my school, but I don’t seem to fit in with any of them. What would you do to find a friend? Suzie
Dear Suzie,
First of all—thank you for writing. It takes guts to say, “Hey, I’m feeling this way,” and I want you to know you’re not alone. A lot of people—way more than you probably think—feel exactly like this, especially in 9th grade when everything’s shifting.
Now, about those groups. I get it. High school can feel like one big lunchroom scene from a movie, where everyone has a “place,” and you’re stuck holding a tray, wondering where to sit. But here’s a secret most people don’t tell you: you don’t have to fit into a group to find your people. Start small. One connection. One real convo. That’s how real friendships begin.
Here’s what I’d do:
- Find a space where people gather around something you actually care about. Whether it’s art club, drama, robotics, music, anime, or volunteering—whatever sparks your interest. When you’re doing something you enjoy, it’s way easier to find someone who vibes with you.
- Be brave enough to be friendly first. I know that sounds backwards when you are feeling alone, but even a “Hey, is anyone sitting here?” or a “I like your backpack” can crack the ice. Most people are waiting for someone else to make the first move.
- Look for the other ‘floaters.’ There’s a good chance someone else feels just like you, kinda in-between. Smile at them. Say hi in the hall. That one moment could be the start of something.
And finally, Suzie—you’re not broken, you’re becoming. The people who don’t fit into perfect boxes? They’re often the most interesting, creative, and kind-hearted souls out there. Keep being you. The right friends will find you—and they’ll be lucky to have you.
With love,
Aunt Abby
💜✨ Real talk. Good vibes. Always here for you.
