I have loaned money in 5 instances and was repaid only twice. Yes loaning money can often destroy a friendship. It is much better to gift the money to your friend. Do not plan on getting paid back as it is a gift. If you do get paid it is icing on the cake. However if it is a real friendship, then that friendship is more important to preserve than the money. If you cannot gift it, don't give it. Even the Bible supports the idea of gifting money rather than loaning it. good read. Thanks for sharing.