Months ago, my husband and I experienced a financial problem. Rent was due, and I was a bridesmaid in a friend’s wedding. She asked $350 for a wedding celebration. Of course, I decided to pay rent and explained it to her. She was furious, labeled me a bad friend, and relegated me to a guest. She called me yesterday. Her voice was shaking.

“Hi, this is serious. My fiancé and I need to borrow money. I know we haven’t talked in a while, but you’re the only one who can help us.” It turned out that they had both been laid off and were deeply in debt. The same acquaintance who had once chastised me for not paying for her event now had nowhere to turn.

I knew she had heard about our improved financial status and our plans to buy a house. But after seeing how easy she broke our friendship for money, I decided it was enough. I did not lend her a penny. Perhaps now she will understand how it feels. My life has been incredibly serene since I quit being friends with her. Funny how karma works.