Joe’s parents always emphasized the importance of keeping secrets. They taught him that if a person cannot be trusted, they will soon have no friends.
However, this morning at school, Joe’s friend, Levon, shared a secret:
“I’m going to skip my last class, meet some boys behind the school, and try smoking marijuana.”
Levon is doing something wrong and illegal. This behavior could easily develop into a dangerous and destructive habit.
The Dilemma
Consider these two difficult scenarios:
- What should Joe do right now? Should he keep his friend’s secret, or should he tell a trusted adult to help protect Levon from harm?
- What should Joe do if the teacher asks? During the last class, the teacher notices Levon is missing and asks if anyone knows where he and the other boys went. How should Joe respond?
What do you think is the right choice? Talk this over with your family.
Private Reflection Journal
What is one thing from this study that you can apply to your life today? Jot down your thoughts below.