"Good friends are precious" , the article begins . That is true enough .
"It is heartwarming to see how brothers and sisters today are united by a bond that goes beyond any role or assignment in the congregation. By their actions they are in effect saying, “I am your friend, not because I have to be, but because you are important to me.”
We are told of two Witnesses Antonio and Federico.. Now Federico took a "false step"
"Federico recalls: “I could see that Antonio felt my pain. He tried his best to help me emotionally. He cared deeply about my spiritual recovery and never abandoned me. He encouraged me to regain my spiritual strength and not to give up.” Antonio explains: “I spent more time with Federico. I wanted him to feel free to talk to me about anything, even about his pain.”
The article concludes
Consequently, how will a good friend react when a friendship is in danger? He or she will be willing to talk kindly but openly when needed. That friend will be like Nathan and Hushai, who remained loyal even during bad times, and like Jesus, who was willing to forgive. Are you this type of friend?
Fine words .... but can you feel the irony? or is it contradictory? even hypocritical? The examples were of someone who was granted mercy by a J /Committee . Suppose the decision had gone the other way?
IN THE VERY SAME MAGAZINE ISSUE , page 20 p 7
For example, what if a member of your family or a close friend sins, is unrepentant, and has to be disfellowshipped? Would you take decisive action by ceasing to associate with that person? What would your heart move you to do?