If you had difficulty last time, I'll give advice for this time; Join an official faction.
Still make indy chars if that's what you prefer but by even being in a low rank in an official faction you open yourself up to a roster of friends. It grows rapidly from there. :)
Again, thank you everyone!
Last time I just felt like nobody really cared.
This time some people are taking a little time to help.
I'd give you all hugs if I could, but all I can offer are virtual hugs xD