Have you ever had a really good friend ask to borrow money? Did they pay you back? Just lent a friend money, she's out of a job-said she would pay me back-I've known her for years, but I get the impression she is flat broke-it's almost to the point of where the money is secondary, but losing a good friend/friendship over this is more tough-thoughts anyone?
How would it ruin your friendship? You mean, if she was unable to pay it back? Or just the fact that she is asking?
Look at it this way: just give her the money. Don't expect it back. You can look at it that way if it's easier. If she says she will pay you back, then say thanks, but don't expect it back.
How much money are you talking about? Is it a lot of money to you? (amount doesn't matter since it's all relative) or not much?
I rarely loan money. I had a guy I knew I'd loan money to, who always paid me back. The guy made more money than me, but was bad with his money. I'd known him for 10 yrs and he'd helped me in the past, so I felt I could not say no to him. Even though he would pay me back, it seemed that all of a sudden I became the bank of Jason, always loaning out money to the guy. It grew a big tiring after a while and I tended to avoid him after awhile.
Maybe let her know it is a one time thing and loan her the money. If you are broke, or can't afford it just tell her you can't spare to lend any out.
I need more info to answer your question really.