There are many great relationships that started from a great friendship. Those couples who belong to this lucky category mostly think that it’s one of the best decisions they ever made. But there are also people whose friendship was ruined because they thought that they could work out as being more than friends. I’m one of those unlucky people.

I’ve been best friends with this guy ever since the 5th grade and we had almost everything in common: love for nature, taste in music and movies, and hobbies. We enjoyed each other’s company so much, and I never put any malice in our relationship, until high school happened and almost everyone in my new barkada started teasing us together.

At first, it was harmless, but eventually, he was affected and something sort of developed. I was uncomfortable with the idea of the two of us being together, because I didn’t want it to affect our friendship (and I’ve seen some people grow apart because of failed relationships before). But one night, he did ask me out. I said yes, but only to have a talk with him.

It was one of the most difficult conversations I’ve had in my whole life. It was awkward at first, because I knew that what I was going to do would break his heart. But I did have the talk with him anyway. Turns out I underestimated our friendship. He was very quiet at first and he did look disappointed, but later on he assured me that he would always be my friend.

I really think that if you value your friendship so much, it would be best to stay that way with him. If you’re only considering dating your guy best friend because of the jeers friends or other people, do not give in. First because you’re not sure if your guy best friend is comfortable with the idea of the two of you together, and second because your other friends are not going to be the ones who would be disappointed and hurt in the end if it doesn’t work out between you and your guy best friend.

If however, you feel that your love for each other is (naturally) becoming more than friendship, I would think it’s worth the risk. But for other reasons, I strictly advise to stay as friends.