Web woes: MySpace causes trouble between friends

By Scotti Hager
George Washington High School

Top 8. By now, everyone from your little brother to your history teacher knows what this means. But is it really such a big deal if you’re on someone’s or not?

Most people would say no, but for two George Washington High School friends, Taylor and Lauren, the matter became a near friendship-ruining nightmare.

It all started one day in December at lunchtime. Taylor and Lauren, best friends since first grade, were chatting about the day’s events.

“Math was so hilarious this morning!” Lauren said. “That guy Jordan is such an idiot!”

And that’s where Lauren messed up big time. None of the following events would’ve happened had she not forgotten one minor detail — Taylor was dating the “idiot” Jordan.

Taylor was so mad she left school early that day. She was going to figure out a way to punish Lauren for making fun of Jordan. Finally, it hit her. Lauren had always been in Taylor’s top spot on her MySpace page and vice-versa. So what better way to get her back than to move her down —- to spot number 5!

Right after Taylor clicked “Save Changes,” and IM window popped up. Lauren angrily demanded to know why Taylor had moved her, instigating an argument that lasted for 20 minutes with the girls going back and forth trying to defend their ways. At that point, the ridiculousness of the situation hit Lauren.

“Why are we arguing?” she asked calmly.

“Yeah, dude. Not so sure. LOL,” replied Taylor.

“LMAO!” both exclaimed at the same time.

Luckily, the event wasn’t a friendship breaker, though it came close. “I’m just glad we’re still friends! Lauren is always gonna be my number one!” Taylor exclaimed recently as she hugged her best friend.

This situation may sound extreme, but it’s not uncommon. As MySpace continues to play a huge role in many teens’ lives, it can also fuel or create problems in them. The key is to remain objective about the situation.

“I don’t really mind if I’m on someone’s top or not,” said GW freshman Megan Miller. “But if I’m on someone’s top 8 and they aren’t on mine, I always try to find a place for them on [my friends list], even if I have to expand to 16 or 24.”

Classmate Robert Thomas is even more relaxed. “I just think everyone needs to chill about MySpace and who is on whoever’s top 8. I mean, come on, it’s just a website.”