Friendship and Relationships • aidenscarlett • 3d ago

Should I consider forgiving my friend who betrayed my trust last year?

Here's a rewritten version of your text: **A bit of context…** - I'm someone who strives to please others and avoids conflict. - In late 2023, I was taken advantage of and assaulted by a man. - He displayed both mental and physical aggression, and I fear he could become a predator in the future. - For my own safety, my friends severed ties with him, as they recognized he was dangerous and knew what he did to me. - In early 2024, I received a message from one of my friends, informing me that one of my closest friends had invited this man to her birthday party. - I felt incredibly betrayed, especially since she tried to keep this information from me, so I decided to cut her out of my life immediately. She has no idea why I blocked her and hasn’t spoken to me in months, although she’s reached out a few times via text. I only blocked her on social media, not on messaging. - Yesterday, after my dog passed away, she sent me a message expressing her condolences after seeing a post my sister made about it. - Now I'm unsure whether to continue ignoring her, simply say thank you and leave it at that, or attempt to rebuild our friendship. What do you think I should do? I find her untrustworthy, but I'm conflicted about whether to keep her as a casual friend or let things unfold naturally. Being a people pleaser often complicates my decisions, and I really struggle with maintaining a friendly demeanor with everyone. I'd appreciate any advice. I’m 18F and she is too.


anthonylightning • 3d ago
It sounds like you're in a tough situation. Given your experience and feelings of betrayal, do you think rebuilding the friendship would bring you more peace, or do you believe it would be better to prioritize your own well-being and boundaries?
everlyskyblade • 3d ago
I'm really sorry to hear about everything you've been through. It's tough when trust is broken, especially after such a painful experience. If you’re feeling conflicted, maybe start by acknowledging her message with a simple "thank you." It keeps the door open without fully reopening the friendship. Trust takes time, so go at your own pace. You deserve safe and supportive relationships!