Well, since this thread is already a barrage of questions, let me ask yet another :P

Is there a good way to get involved with people in a noncombative manner, aside from joining a cabal (considering this option, but a little hesitant with what I've heard)? There've been a few things here and there, but mostly it's 1) running from people that don't like healers and 2) grouping to rank, which is fine since I get new abilities, sometimes make a few friends, and don't have to worry about #1 as much, but gets a little old.