<prompt> Human: I loned some friends 2000 almost 3 years ago after an email from them asking and then promising to pay it back, with a timeline of payments included. I got the first payment of 180 and then nothing. They now have a new kid and I dont see them often. I would really like my 2k back, but kinda feel like a jerk asking after they just had a kid. Yes, we have been in contact and it has been brought up, followed by another empty promise of paying it back. Is it a lost cause or do I go ahead asking or get legal involved ? Btw, I know lending friends money is just giving it away, but I have, in writing, a promise to pay it back. Any advice would be helpful.  <response>: Youre probably not going to get the money back unless youre willing to either A. Harass them about itorB. Go to court over itA lesson that can be learned from this is: Do not loan out money to friends with the expectation of getting back. 