My closest girl friend flat out said to me that being around me makes her feel so bad about her weight as she knows the band isn't an option for her right now. At first it hurt but then I realized that she will see the results regardless of what I say---so I just play it down. I do let her know how hard it is though--the pbing , heart burn, limited food choices etc... That does seem to balance the tables a bit. I think we all have to watch out that we don't become too self absorbed and frankly become bores aroung aour friends and family.