Trouble in Paradise

by Alec Deurloo

In a way, I always knew the problem would expand into something greater. All can be well, but that can change in a split second. Although the highs are great, the lows can be drastic. 

There are instances where our friendship seems like it can be in grave danger, or even at a standstill. From nasty little comments, to oversharing topics, making obscene “jokes”, it seems like things may finally hit an end. We’ve discussed, argued, even contemplated making things better. After a breach of privacy, the trust has been extinguished. I can recall the unsettling jokes you made towards me and others, biting my tongue to keep a sense of unity. I still remember the long car ride towards the arcade in Salem. Salem Willows, willow trees, the overwhelming smell of buttered popcorn. The beaming lights from the large LED arcade sign blind my eyes as I try enjoying my jumbo bag of cotton candy, all while having a judging eye constantly over my shoulder. There is no longer any safety, and it seems like a world of judgment being with you.

We head back to your house, getting stuck in the overpowering amount of traffic in the streets of Salem. You continue to comment, the breaking point finally reached. We enter your house and sit down in the oddly positive-looking beach-themed living room. A discussion is needed. As I reach for the remote, you negatively comment on my gesture, how peculiar. Another confrontation starts, and I decide to hit some important key points. 

“We move on, yet the cycle continues every time,” I say to you. “Walking in from the store, you need to criticize every detail of my actions and events, but never focus on your own. As though you are my biggest judge.” 

You grunt, implying the situation is comical. 

I get up and leave, breaking the cycle that I’ve gotten myself stuck in for months. As I leave, I think to myself… am I the cause of the problem? 

A friend, in a lot of ways, can be your rock, your shelter, a getaway from the problems clouding your life. That is not always the case. A friendship is not always black and white. I realize on the way home that this will continue to be a recurring theme, and that it is time to leave that baggage at the door. It’s over. A duo that was once seen as an unbreakable pair has now split paths. Some described us as a “match made in paradise”. It is time to grow, and the relentless vacation has come to an end. Whether suntanning on a pink sandy beach in Bermuda, or in a mountain cave freezing cold, the vacation from hell is finally over, I finally escaped from the trouble in paradise.