most times

one's conscience is one has. sometimes to our detriment. Sometimes it might be easier to do the group thing, and not the right thing. The right choice is seldom the easy choice. I trust that your friend knows that you have not abandoned him, and I'm sure he would stand by your decision either way, if he is a friend. Some folk say they are your friends, they may even go so far as to offer their moral support, while in other quarters they are disparaging you. You are not one of those people, and you should know that some of us consider you an all-around great guy and not just because you allow us a place to post.