Good theists... Parts 1 and 2 merged

[KevinM1]

To not be one?  And to not associate with raging examples of such?

I'm also a firm believer that we're responsible for the company we keep.  Which is why I'm happy that while I don't have many true friends, they're indeed true.  I know I can count on them, and them me.

And if they won't leave you alone? Ignore them? Run away?

I'm all for the hermit-like or tight knit tribal life style..but what if confrontation is impossible to avoid?

Unless violence or the threat of violence is in play, avoiding poisonous people is trivial.

It helps if you're generally apathetic, like I am.  I find most human drama to be manufactured and idiotic.  I have no problems simply avoiding any meaningful contact with most people.  I don't care about my bank teller, or cousin's friend, or mail deliverer, or any of the almost faceless people I occasionally interact with, outside of them providing their services competently (if that's the thrust of my relationship with them) and/or treating the few people I do care about fairly.

Regarding people who inevitably get thrust into my life that I dislike, ignoring them usually works.  They tend to get the hint pretty quickly.  Beyond that, honesty.  "I'm sorry, but I don't wish to be sucked into your drama.  I have enough shit on my plate as it is, and frankly, I think you're your own worst enemy in many cases.  I don't necessarily dislike you, but I'm not interested in a friendship, and would like to be left alone."

Keep in mind, the few people I'm close to are people I love deeply, and would do just about anything for.  But I don't get to that stage easily.  My friendship - actual, real, meaningful friendship - isn't something I just give away.  It needs to be earned.