Oh wow 3raser! Two amazing awesome posts! You have a lot to be proud of. The achievements, the progress, the changes. I would say to you that you are a different person than your friend’s ex and that you likely gambled for different reasons. Don’t feel like you have to put yourself in the same camp. I can see how you might be a little cautious as to when or how or if you share your story with your friend.
Isn’t it totally amazing how your posts changed within 6 days and with a counseling session in between. A good counselor helps us see things from a different perspective. Help us grow and change. Definitely invest in yourself. Set a up a reasonable repayment plan that leaves you money and time for the important things like counseling, evenings out with friends, shopping for yourself. Dream big. When we don’t waste all our time, energy and money on gambling the sky is the limit really. Just look at the difference 45 days has made. Congratulations!
Laura