Q: Is there a question of good faith in sponsorship?

Sponsorship is based on good faith.

It's an asymmetrical relationship.

The sponsor's being asked to help the sponsee identify where they're going wrong in belief, thinking, and behaviour, and that involves expressing observations that will be very uncomfortable.

The favour is not returned, however; 'right of appeal' is certainly available, and discussions can certainly be raised about misunderstandings, adjusting details of how the process works, seeking clarification on tough points raised, etc., and it's certainly the sponsor's job to admit their own relevant faults and mistakes where appropriate.

However, when the tables are turned, and the sponsee or potential sponsee moves into accusation, personal attack, undermining of the person's home group or other groups, manoeuvring in relation to others in the group or circle of acquaintances, playing off against others, or other expressions of mistrust, hostility, cynicism, etc., the basis for sponsorship is destroyed.

The relationship is based on trust and good faith, and, without that, there is no relationship.

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