DEAR ABBY: I was wondering what is the appropriate level of give and take in a friendship? I notice that in some relationships I am always giving and never receiving, where in others I am always receiving. How do you know when a balance is reached? -- JAKE IN ALBANY, GA.
DEAR JAKE: There is give and take in all healthy relationships. A "balance is reached" when you can give without feeling used, and take without feeling guilty that you're being given too much.