Dear John: I'm a bridesmaid in a wedding for a BFF. Before the big day, we'll all be going to Las Vegas. I have mixed feelings about this, because I know that the bride sees this as an opportunity for a "last fling." Her excuse is that she won't know if he'll be doing the same at his bachelor party. As much as I like her, the groom is also a close friend of mine, and I'd feel awful if she followed through on her plan, whether he did or not. Frankly, I don't know if I can keep my mouth shut! Help me out here! —The Bridesmaid with a Dilemma, in Houston, Texas

Dear Bridesmaid: Wow. If this is her attitude — or his — then your friends will have one rocky journey on the path to "happily ever after."

Obviously, you don't want to be in the middle of her drama. Well, guess what? You don't have to be. Bow out of the Vegas trip — and the whole wedding, if that would make you more comfortable. That way, you won't be put in the middle of something that (if what you say is true) may not last anyway.

Dear John: I'm a very cheerful person. Unfortunately, my boyfriend's depression is getting me down. If he's not complaining about his job, it's about his lack of friends to hang out with. I have a ton of friends. As much as I like being with him, sometimes I find him a drag. What's the best way to let him know that he should lighten up, before he loses me, too? — Little Miss Sunshine, in Marietta, Ga.

Dear Little Miss Sunshine: From what you're describing, your boyfriend may be clinically depressed. Before you call it quits, encourage him to seek counseling and to get a diagnosis from a licensed psychiatrist. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a condition that can be controlled. With your love and support, he'll be on the right path to a more satisfying frame of mind.

John Gray is the author of "Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus." Visit his website, http://www.marsvenus.com, for advice on dating, marriage, parenting, romance and workplace issues. Or e-mail him at [email protected]. To find out more about John Gray and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.