The Unspoken Diary of a Namibian Girl

Part 18

Dear Diary,

There's been a growing concern weighing heavily on my heart lately. I've noticed a change in Melanie, one of my neighbors who lives in the same flats. Melanie used to be so lively and social, always surrounded by friends who warmly invited me to join their gatherings. However, things have taken a different turn recently. She seems distant and isolated, often retreating to her room without interacting much with anyone.

Last night, my heart broke when I caught her smoking behind the walls. It was a surprising sight, as I'd never seen a cigarette near her precious lips before. I wonder if smoking has become a way for her to find solace in the midst of whatever she's going through. It's as if something has changed within her, something she's choosing to keep to herself. I wonder why she's been silent about whatever troubles she might be facing.

This isn't the same Melanie who used to knock on my door to ask for spare books to read or call me for karaoke nights. She had such a vibrant spirit. Her room, a haven of luxury, now seems almost hollow in its emptiness. I feel a sense of responsibility to reach out to her, to offer a listening ear.

The question is: how should I approach this? Should I talk to her directly, or would it be better for her close friends to intervene? I'm worried that her friends might be involved in whatever is bothering her, which adds an extra layer of complexity. Despite my hesitations, I've come to realize that I might need to be the bigger person in this situation. Melanie's well-being matters, and I can't simply stand by and watch her struggle.

I'll gather the courage to talk to her, to let her know that I care and that I'm here if she ever needs someone to talk to. We all go through tough times, and sometimes, knowing that someone cares can make a world of difference.

With empathy,

Iyaloo