Ethical dilemma #022
A friend repaid a loan late and now asks for another. Would you lend again?
A friend repaid your loan three months late and stopped responding for part of that time. Now they need help again and promise to act differently.
Related reflectionRemembering Our Mistakes Can Help Us Understand Others↗What would you do in this situation?
Choose an answer before continuing.
The context
Six months ago, you lent a friend money for an urgent repair. They promised repayment in one month but took four. For several weeks, they stopped replying when you asked about the loan. Eventually they paid and apologized.
Today they tell you they need money for a new expense and ask for another loan. You could lend it without lacking essentials, but your trust has changed. You remember being late with a debt yourself years ago and someone giving you another chance. You can lend again, say no, or help another way. You want to be understanding, but do not want to feel you must chase someone again to get your money back.
A perspective to continue
Giving another chance can include boundaries. What would you need to see to regain trust, and what help can you offer without accepting a risk you do not want?
04
What your decision prioritizes
You offer another chance with clear conditions. A written agreement does not ensure they can meet it this time.
You protect your money and a boundary you need. Your friend might feel rejected even though you have reasons to say no.
You offer support without repeating the loan. The alternative might not meet the immediate need they are describing.
How other people responded
Percentages will appear after enough responses have been collected.
0 recorded decisions
05
Your friend admits they hid out of shame. They now have a steady job and propose paying in two installments, but have not yet received their first paycheck.
Now that you know this, would you keep your decision?
Keep my decision
The new information does not change what you had decided. Consider whether your original reasons still hold in light of what you have just learned.
Change my decision
What you have just learned leads you to choose a different response. Which detail changed how you see the situation?
I need to know more
The new information leaves you with an important question. What would you need to ask before acting?
0% changed their mind after learning the new context
More dilemmas to consider
