The Funk, It Is... Contagious?

Life can be quite difficult for a fifth grader. When Offspring the Third arrived into the safety of home from school today, he pronounced:

The world is a cold, heartless place, and you just have to adapt to it.

Herself provided a hug and a lemonade popsicle, and told him:

If you can find a few good friends, they will make all the difference.