Fuzzy,
I am so happy to see you expressing more,and not bottled up so much.
It's healthy to do this,letting things surface,and address them,even have friends help work with you on stuff.
I am very happy to see how much progress you've made over the years I know you,I'm very proud of you.
Well, do not have much to add here,for many have pretty much stated some of what I was going to say.
I didn't answer what your topic line is,oops,I drifted,maybe cause in RL I'm a loner and can't really relate.
Being a loner,has become as natural as breathing,I can say it started as a child (probably due to the dysfunctional environment)and after being burnt by some,I went back to being a loner,it's safer that way.
Another advantage is that I can go and do what I please,not having to work around others agendas.
For myself,being a loner,no longer hurts,like I said it's as natural as breathing.
It does hurt for me to see my son,not with friends,etc. he's comfortable with just being home when he comes home from school,he's a sophomore in college and commutes everyday. I shouldn't feel hurt though,if he enjoys his freedom,which he does,and has a great sense of humour but so conservative.
Fuzzy, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to sort of hi-jack your post,it just sort of prompt something out of my mind/heart.
Don't be hard on yourself,there are all kinds of people,different personalities,hangups,etc. Sometimes broken friendship or shaky ones,can really hurt and tempt us to obsess if things were because of oneself,but don't let this beat up on yourself,or doubt yourself.
A little wondering is good,but if a relationship seems it can't be mended,move on,for there are many who would like to be friends,there may be some out there that you have yet to meet.
Bottom line,you are liked by so many,and that is a wonderful thing, the heck with those who are unworthy.

(((((((((((( Fuzzy ))))))))))))))