DEAR HARRIETTE: One of my friends has decided that she is going to pursue her dream of becoming a famous singer. She has been pestering us to come to coffee houses and open mic nights for months now. At first it was all right to support her occasionally, but now I am at my wits' end. She's average! She won't be famous! I know I'm not a talent agent, and maybe I'll have to eat my words one day, but I find that likelihood very slim. These emailed links to her YouTube song covers and Facebook performance invitations need to stop. I could add her to my spam filter and maybe unfriend her on Facebook, but I know she would confront me about not supporting her. I support her being happy, but I find she's being selfish by trying to create a fan base out of reluctant friends. Is there any way I can drop being a fan but still be a friend? -- Stop the Songs, Dallas
DEAR STOP THE SONGS: Be a friend by supporting her when you can, without judgment. You don't need to do anything when she sends her links. You don't need to unfriend her. Watch the ones you want to see, but not the ones you don't. Give your friend credit for pursuing her dream. If necessary, tell her that you are not really into the music scene and, therefore, will only attend occasionally, but that you wish her well. Know that even though you do not think your friend has talent, there remains the possibility that she will enjoy some measure of success. Persistence counts for a lot.