And a happy holidays to you...

Let us talk then, you and I, about friendship.

A few days ago, I received an email from an old friend -- one who now has a tendency to only email when there is something s/he wants. All other times, there is a blank space from this person, but when s/he has an agenda, an idea or something s/he wants assistance with (usually in order to further themselves, or his/her career), then voila! An email. Usually for some kind of means to further career and such.

That same day, I received another rather cold email from an online friend who flatly informed that as they perceived I didn't want to be part of their life, they weren't interested in speaking to me further and then I could go forward, get bent and have a lovely and fine life.

This email was quickly followed up by another that conceded the original was harsh (though no apologies for it), and offered me a place to stay should I ever be in that neck of the woods.

At the same time, another friend has dropped off the face of the earth, with nae so much as a fare-thee-well... All emails are hitherto ignored. Not quite as much a utilitarian breach of friendship as the previous examples -- I'm neither a vessel for support, nor bound to send deep, introspective missives when time and circumstance don't permit -- but a breach nonetheless, given the length of time I've known this particular subject.

I'm irritated, but draw the line at marching up to them in person and smacking the proverbial white glove across his/her face.

Although I really do want to.

So it seems I have either been remiss in selecting those of whom I bestow my rarely-proffered friendship (am always friendly, but there are few I consider friends), or I have not been fulfilling my part of the unsaid bargains.

Or perhaps there are more interesting others standing in the wings, who would step in. I have no more to offer, or am neglectful in my own ways.

But I have no point here. Just a sad outpouring of frustration.

And gratitude, for the wonderful little soldiers who still steadfastedly remain my friends through fine weather and foul.

And of course, you, dear (and few) readers.

And it is to you I wish the happiest of holidays, whichever ones you may celebrate. Eat, drink, get good loot and have a damn-assed fine time in the process.

I must return. Seems I am accompanying Small Nephew to the movies this afternoon, in a bid to give the rest of the family time for shopping and such.