NikW wrote "All relationships formed within an abusive context have the potential to perpetuate the abusive paradigm - even when one party is seeking a non abusive alternative."

Yes, I agree that they have the potential, but in practice I think the chance is small if you make sure you do not get in sucked in deeply again by doing some research and thinking about the matter.

NikW wrote "The nature of 'friendship' between cult and ex cult members will always be of a compromised nature"

I agree that this is a problem with friends who are deeply involved. But most friendships are of a compromised nature: friends rarely have exactly the same opinions, preferences, and hobbies.