I have talked to one of the friends, the one who most recently gifted the bromeliad. Discussed how we plan to get together again and I told her just not to bring me plants, bring herself and that would be enough, because bringing me plants is like sending them to the gallows. I think it got a good chuckle from her to the extent I could judge it in a phone conversation. Told her that I keep watering as instructed but they still die. She then went on how when she has orchids, she just keeps them and they die and it is OK. But it is not OK for me. Somehow I really detest witnessing the later stages of a dying plant's life. So thanks but no hanks. She said she would bring something else or bring herself. I am happy.