5 rules — each one links to the scenario that teaches it.
“Patterns of flaking aren't about one canceled plan — they're about whether the friendship is still mutual.”
“Old friendships don't usually break on big things — they break on the small, unaddressed asymmetry of two lives drifting apart.”
“A friend group will tolerate absence. They won't tolerate being ignored.”
“A direct "how are you really doing?" is an offer — not a greeting. How you respond defines the depth of the friendship going forward.”
“In recovery contexts, silence is read as permission — and any confrontation that centers your own fear will fail.”
More unspoken rules