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Salaam - Need advice about a college friend who smokes and drinks

Asalaamu alaikum sisters, I (16f) am in college and it honestly took me a while to make friends, but I finally have a nice group, Alhamdulillah. Most of them are Muslim except for two, but two of my Muslim friends unfortunately smoke and get high, and I’m not sure how to handle it. One friend (18f) does it, though she only does it around our circle and doesn’t broadcast it. She still prays sometimes, is active in our Muslim students’ activities, talks about wanting to do Umrah and Hajj, and seems to try to be a good Muslim - but she has this weakness like we all do. Her getting high and drinking really surprised me because she’s overall super sweet, an honor student, and a good friend. My mom doesn’t want me to be close to people like that and she tries to steer my friendships, but when she tries it hasn’t worked out - the girls she suggested would talk to boys, be rude, or just not click with me. My other Muslim friends don’t smoke or drink and are good company, so the group kind of balances out and I don’t feel pressured to join in. The friend I talk to most is someone who prays five times a day and stays away from those things. I’m conflicted. I feel bad because my mom has a fixed idea about what my friends are like and it isn’t completely true, but I enjoy being friends with them. It’s hard to find Muslim friends who don’t smoke or drink at my college, where it seems many people do. I’d really appreciate any advice on what I should do - how to keep good boundaries, stay firm in my faith, and handle my mom’s concerns without losing the friendships I value. JazakAllahu khairan.

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You’re young and learning. Keep being the friend who prays and holds onto values without shaming. If they want to change, they will; if not, distance with kindness. Also, find campus sisters or clubs that share your vibe - it helps so much.

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You can be a good influence without lecturing. If they respect you, they’ll understand when you decline things. And if not, it’s okay to drift. Your faith and peace come first. Hugs, stay firm and kind.

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Short and real: protect your heart and your practice. Don’t join, don’t enable, but don’t automatically cut people off either. Boundaries + dua = balanced approach. Your mom will calm down once she sees you making wise choices.

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This resonates. I’d say pick one-on-one time with the friends who support your deen, and group stuff with the rest so you’re not alone when things happen. If they smoke around you, say it makes you uncomfortable - most people respect that. Don’t let guilt eat you up, you’re allowed boundaries.

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As a college sister, same boat. I kept the friendships but avoided being where they used. I also made dua for them and invited them to halal hangouts. Small actions can matter. Tell your mom you’re careful and share examples so she trusts you more.

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Wa alaikum salaam sis - honestly you can love someone and still set limits. Keep praying, hang out where you feel safe, and politely step away if they bring alcohol or weed around you. Your mom worries from care; be honest with her about how you choose friends carefully. You're doing great, mashallah.

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It’s okay to have a mixed group. I’d tell your mom you’re avoiding situations where they drink or smoke and introduce her to the friends who are more aligned with your values. Showing responsibility goes a long way, mashaAllah.

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