Is he a real friend? or just someone who's using me?

I have a "friend" who likes drinking a lot. He always asks me to ask my older brother if he can buy him beer. He pays my older brother all the time when he decides to but my older brother got tired of it today and confronted me about my "friend". He said he's not a real friend if thats the only reason he talks to me. I can't help but think the same thing. We always get along just fine when we hang out but he's always getting drunk and high. I think my older brother is right unfortunately. Me and this friend of mine think the same and talk the same but it's his addiction to alcohol and smoking that slows him down from doing anything productive with his life. He always talks about doing all these cool things like making his own music and other crazy things....but I think he's all talk and no action. He's quite immature when he's drunk and high. He thinks he's tough and that he can rap but I personally see a confused immature brat. He doesn't respect his mom, and he acts like he has something to prove around people all the time. The only reason I would hang out with him was because he was the only one that ever "gave me a chance" and we have some cool conversations and joke around which is cool but I feel like right now I'm at a place in my life where I want to stay busy and work on myself. I want to stay productive and I've been accomplishing a lot lately because I haven't been getting wasted. Should I stop hanging out with him? Should I let him know what I really think of him?

SW-User

Hard to say if he is your good friend. You will only know that when you will be subjected to a hard time. However, you should be a good friend to him. For that, first you must stop providing him alcohol. Reason? Its bad for you so as a good friend, I won't be source of it for you. Motivate him for better. If he still sticks around, continue as friend and if he not, let him go.

Christian · 26-30, M

Thanks. I was a complete loner throughout most of my school life so I'm kinda new to friendship. But I now understand its a two way thing. He really is a good friend overall. He helped me one time when I needed a new car battery. I get what you're saying. We both have flaws and we shouldn't judge too harshly. That being said I should start being more upfront with him. I'll let him know what is and what isn't cool with me. Thanks for the advice.

SW-User

@Christian: In men world, we like those who are upfront but not rude. Stand for what you believed is wrong and suggest him same. Always be there for him, when ever he returns if he decides to walk away. Just put your concerns politely but firmly.