Crawford,

I think it is pretty common for those of us who want to be in integrity with themselves and feeling that the outside world does not support that/you.  You want to focus on your art and yet you are feeling that having the friends you have keeps you from doing that?

It is an awareness of what is important to you in your life and act accordingly.  I believe that like anything, it’s a practice.

I think a good measure of what is good for you is to be mindful what feeds your spirit and whatever it is that gives you energy rather than suck your energy.

Mark