Will one barb end this friendship?

Dear Diane: I have a great friend who I have a huge problem with. One day out of the blue she criticized a parenting decision I made. Between that and her general nastiness at the time, I hung up on her.

I haven’t talked to her in a week. I am very hurt by her, and I don’t think I can talk to her again unless she apologizes.

I’m really disappointed by her, and I don’t feel like being around her anymore, although her friends are my friends. What should I do?

— You Gotta Have Friends in Framingham

Dear Framingham:

I wish you’d told me what your “great friend” said that was so unforgivable. It would’ve made my job a little easier.

What you need to do is think long and hard about what this woman told you and decide whether what she said is worth throwing away a great friendship. You also need to factor in that you and she have mutual friends and that you will run the risk of losing other friendships.

If you decide to end this friendship, then tell your mutual friends that you no longer wish to attend any activities that she will be at, and then let the chips fall where they may.

Or you can call your friend. Calmly explain that you are very upset by her comments and would like to make things right between you. Most likely, she will apologize and things will be great again. But you will never know unless you call.