U3. Modals

Дата публикации: Apr 17, 2014 12:1:4 PM

How to be a good friend

The problem is that as we get older we feel we ought to be able to sort out our own problems, and we keep these to ourselves, rather than talking about them.

So if one of your friends suddenly becomes more withdrawn than usual, it might mean that they have a problem, but don’t feel they can tell you about it.

If your friend wants to tell you about their problem, you have to listen!

In most cases, you can’t actually do anything about it, but allowing them to talk about their feelings could help them to work it through.

You may be able to get practical information that can help your friend.

You probably think you must tell them straightaway – but there’s a right time for everything.

So you shouldn't force the information on them; instead, wait until they actually ask for it.

You don’t have to talk about your own experiences to show you understand your friend’s problem.

If your friend doesn't ask if anything similar has happened to you, you mustn't go on about your own problems, past or present.

Remember, the most important thing you can do for your friend is just be there for them.

Вопросы:

1. So if one of your friends suddenly becomes more withdrawn than usual, it might mean that they have a problem, but don’t feel they can tell you about it. Почему не could и could?

2. You may be able to get practical information that can help your friend. Почему не could и could?