My assumptions
As I think about our conversation, I make several assumptions about you. First, I assume that you are not directly involved in the problem experienced by Friends. The issue Friends face is not a point of conflict with you. Everything in this course contributes to conflict resolution. It doesn't focus on managing strong negative feelings Friends might have for you.
           
Second, you bring self-respect and maturity to helping relationships. We do not need Friends to like us. Of course, they might. Instead of worrying about our needs for belonging and affection, though, we can focus on giving emotional support to someone who needs us . We have the courage to face potentially intense emotions related to suffering.

Third, you can accept your imperfection and manage uncertainty. We all make mistakes. The key is to recognize and recover from our errors. We do the best we can when in the presence of someone in pain. There is no script you can depend on at this moment. What we offer is reassuring calmness, a presence of mind, and a compassionate heart. To provide effective help, we need a source of strength in a personal source of support.

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My Support Network