"Too many irons not enough fire."

This is probably really late and I apologize.

I think the best thing you can do is support them.  If you feel they have truly repented and theymean what they say, then tell them that is a big step.  It’s huge to acknowledge your follies andtribulations in life and it’s even bigger to want to change yourself and becomea better person because of it.  I thinkthat your friend needs reassurance, and more than likely quite a bit ofit.  I also suffer from depression andthere are times when my views can be pitch black and abysmal when it comes towanting to see the positives in things. Encouragement and validation really work best to kill off thosefeelings.  It might not seem like it willwork at first, but remember depression is sort of a slow working thing in thataspect.  It’s not going to be easilyconquered and it can have quite a strong grip.

Even if they think it’s useless, I would say that they shouldat least try.  Worst case scenario isthat they are not forgiven, but even if that happens they will know where theystand with their friends.  It’s betterthan wondering what if and never taking the chance.  I know rejection scares a lot of people, butsometimes it’s better to hear it than constantly wondering if you could havemade up with them.  Even if people don’tforgive them, that’s okay.  Sometimespeople weren’t meant to be in your life, and you can use it as a lessonlearned.  That’s how I choose to look atthe positives in that situation.

If that happens, reassure them that they’re doingalright.  Let them know that they areadvancing as a person and its okay to make mistakes.  That bettering themselves and acknowledgingwhat they’ve done is a very important step in development.

“Let us create our own twisted Garden of Eden, brother.”