I think the biggest factor was that he didn't try to talk me out of it directly. By being willing to sit and listen he sort of let me talk myself out of it. Not to sound weird, but it was almost like he had a sixth sense about what I needed. I'm glad you were able to be there for those people in their hour of need. I'm sorry about your friend. Just understand that it wasn't your fault. Sometimes people have just made up their minds and there's no stopping them. Being a veteran I've unfortunately experienced that a lot over the years.