Howdy folks! Hope y’all are doing just peachy today. Now, I don’t really have to tell you that one of the most complicated and sometimes bewildering relationships we human beings navigate is our friendships. If you think it’s all rainbows and unicorns, well, bless your heart. Today, I want to tackle a topic that might keep you up at night or at least make that cup of coffee taste a little different: is your best friend secretly green with envy? Sit back and buckle up, because this ride is going to be bumpier than your first attempts at parallel parking.

When Praise Sounds Like a Backhanded Compliment

Let’s start with the obvious signs—although sometimes as subtle as a Southern church lady’s critique of a casserole. Does your friend have a knack for giving compliments that sound, well, odd? You know the type. You show up with a new hairstyle that makes you feel like a million bucks, and they gush, “Wow, I could never pull off something like that!” That kind of compliment often feels like a sweet tea spiked with a little vinegar. Sure, it looks innocent, but you know there’s more than meets the eye.

The One-Upmanship Rodeo

Another tale-tell sign that envy might be lurking beneath the surface is the never-ending game of one-upmanship. You landed that job promotion, and suddenly your friend’s cousin’s sister’s dog gets a scholarship to obedience school. It’s like they’re a contestant on a reality show you didn’t realize you signed up for. Now, don’t get me wrong; sharing achievements is a great way to celebrate life’s milestones. But there’s a twinge of difference when it starts feeling like a competition you’re not prepared to play.

Flaky Behavior: More Than Just Pastry

Oh honey, let’s talk about folks being flaky. If your friend starts bailing on plans like a politician on campaign promises, take a closer look. They might not be as busy as they claim; instead, the thought of being around you and your ‘perfect’ life could be chipping away at their good graces. This is especially true if the flakiness coincides with your recent string of wins, whether it’s nailing that Zumba routine or finally getting that gorgeous garden up to snuff.

The Disappearing Act

Now, related to flakiness is the whole disappearing act. One minute they’re texting you memes and GIFs, and the next, they’ve evaporated into thin air like a magician’s trick. If your friend suddenly goes ‘radio silent’ just when things are going well for you, it’s possible that envy is lurking beneath the surface. Sometimes people need a little break from the things that remind them of what they feel they lack—though we all know true friends should be there to cheer on our little victories.

The Subtle Sabotage

Here’s one that might fly under the radar but can sting like a wasp on a summer afternoon: subtle sabotage. Does your friend ever accidentally-on-purpose steer you away from fantastic opportunities or ‘forget’ to deliver crucial information that could propel you forward? Perhaps they suddenly make biting comments disguised as jokes. This isn’t just for the birds; it’s a red flag taller than a Texan flagpole. Be cautious, because no matter how innocuous these actions seem, they indicate an undercurrent of envy that’s rearing its ugly head.

Feeling the Cold Shoulder

Finally, let’s chat about the cold shoulder. Nothing screams envy more than a frosty reception when you’re sharing good news or asking for a little help. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill indifference; it’s almost like your success is a personal affront to them. Whether it’s at the weekly Bible study or during your coffee meet-ups, you’ll notice the difference in how they react. It’s like bringing a hot dish to a potluck and having everyone ignore it. You feel it—oh, you do.

So, What’s Mary’s Take?

Well, folks, if you’ve stuck with me this long, you probably want to know what to do about it. My advice? Pray on it, of course. You see, envy is as old as the hills and just as stubborn. The Good Book warns us about the dangerous ground that envy treads on. While I’m no psychologist, I will tell you this—sometimes the best way to address an envious friend is to confront the issue head-on, with grace and God’s wisdom. Remember, we’re called to be the light in people’s lives, even when they cast shadows on ours. Maybe your friend needs a listening ear or just a little more love. At the end of the day, a true friend is worth the effort to redeem the relationship.

Until next time, keep your loved ones close, your prayers closer, and never underestimate the power of a kind word (and maybe a pie). Y’all take care now!