Friends don't abandon you. Acquaintances are a different matter, though. We often mistake close acquaintances for friendship. We may "hang out" with them, see them often, share some interests; yet, the deeper bond of true friendship is just not there . BTW, Any expectation or demand that we give up or adapt ourselves and our goals to suit them is a big warning sign in any relationship.

True friendship is a deeper bond which stands the tests of change, time, and distance. A true friendship bond is really more like a familial relationship – but you have chosen that bond. Real friends encourage and value you and your goals.