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I have been friends for over two decades, who has faced and conquered many hardships, which I admire. But, she's repeatedly blindsided by others. Her husband ended their marriage, which came as an unexpected event. Many of her social circle vanished then, since they had been only interested in her husband. It shocked her. She made increased attention in our friendship, and must have grasped more clearly the essence of true friendship.

A Recurring Theme of Disappearance

In the time since, quite a few in her circle have drifted apart leaving her sure why. Her last employer became hostile, although she was very skilled at her work, her exit happened unaware of what had changed.

How Things Stand Now

Recently, both of us left the workforce leading to more frequent meetups, however, I feel my position in the relationship is as the audience. I open topics of conversation and she changes them to what interests her. Politically, she expresses strong opinions. My effort is to recommend factchecking and alternate views.

She has been arranging a trip to a country I've visited repeatedly and lived in previously. My intention was to offer advice, yet it was met with resistance. She really just desired my agreement with her choices. I've just ended four weeks there she is eager to catch up, yet I'm reluctant.

Considering the Choices

I am unwilling to act as a friend that walks away abruptly, but I don't think she can understand the consequences of how she acts on my confidence. Right now, I find myself in avoidance mode. What's the best step?

Possible Paths

It's possible to walk away, however, that approach is rarely the peaceful resolution that we desire. But confrontation with a view to working things out takes courage and openness on both your parts.

Professional advice indicates applying a effective method for resolving disputes:

"The first step requires explaining what typically happens when you talk. Aim for this to be based on facts and basically an unbiased account. The second involves sharing the way it makes you feel. Ideally, there's no dispute here. Emotions are your feelings, after all. Step three is to question how you are both will alter the interaction between you."

Remember your friend holds perspectives, meaning you must to stay open to listen to her. One effective method involves stating your friend:

"It's your turn to speak while I will listen without interrupting for half an hour."

This can be successful for promoting mutual respect.

Final Thoughts

This person could ignore everything, for those who have a deep-seated story: they have a version of their life they won't abandon as it feels essential depends upon it being the only thing familiar to them. This poses a challenge because there's no thoroughfare here, only cul-de-sacs. However, she might initially present this way then consider on your words. If a resolution isn't found an agreement, you'll have closure knowing you were open and direct.