I find I give loyalty fairly easily, to people I judge to have integrity and compassion. Especially if they champion me in some way. My new client is very demanding, but she is generous in her praise and is very inspiring to me. I have friends who I never expected to step up for me, and even did so in small ways, but it meant so much to me, I would do anything for them.

I even have ex-friends who, if they did ask me for something, I would probably help. Mostly because the falling out was due to failings on both our sides. I feel they are unsafe to continue being around for me, but I know they are good people, and I wouldn't want to see them hurt.

I do find there are lots of people in this world who will quickly dismiss you. A couple of people I had been friends with outside of work entirely dumped me after I lost my job. And I had actually gone out on a limb for these people and done a lot for them. It was very hurtful.

Honestly, I think it's just a part of opening ourselves up to relationships of all kinds. We may misjudge people or they may fail us. I am sure I have failed people who thought I was a better friend in the past too. I am human and flawed. That's all I can attest to.

(((Emily))) I think you must be a very devoted and kind person IRL. Wish I could know you personally. I think we'd be good friends.