Bumping an old thread partly because of references in the Marigold thread, but also because it seems that this didn't even get discussed, much less had the quality of discussion on the character that is coming up elsewhere...
I think a lot of people misjudge Faye because they don't see her as a "person," per se. Sure, we've all dealt with jerks and assholes, martyrs and morons, but most of us didn't have to deal with them on a daily basis. Those of us that do can usually tell the difference between them and the Fayes out there: Faye is still a friend to the people in QC, whereas those people we had encounters with are more likely to be termed bullies.
Faye has a rough exterior (I doubt anyone would challenge that), but the bare bones of her being still points her to be a fiercly loyal friend who would stick her neck out (preceded by two powerful fists) for those she cares about. Even when she appears to be sassing her friends in ways we might consider "cruel" she does a good portion of it for their betterment. Could she be doing it in a more respectful, subdued manner? Of course she could, but then she wouldn't quite be the same person. Anyone else could fill the "gentle nudge" position, but it takes a certain kind of gusto to really give you that kick in the ass to just STOP MOANING ABOUT IT AND DO SOMETHING ALREADY (and I'm sure many of you have known someone who really needed that at one point or another).
The people in QC have the benefit of being in the position of recieving her words and actions which, let's face it, always look different than when coming at it from a 3rd-party viewpoint. They also have the benefit of doing stuff behind the scenes, whereas our opinions can only really be formed by what we are allowed to view through the comics. We extrapolate the rest based on what we feel would be most logical, as well as our own experiences. While we are doing our best, this still doesn't bring us any closer to being Faye's "friend," those who would figure out before us why we'd want her around and not kick her to the curb. Though I'll concede you may never want more than ONE of her, she's a damned worthwhile friend to have in my opinion: one that has your back no matter what and is both able and willing to tell you when youve screwed up. The cost? Sass and the need to toughen up that thin skin a bit. And i'd take that trade.
I did my best to avoid the "she's had such a hard time" aspect of making excuses and taking her for what she is, not how she got that way. Now I'm curious as to how many may agree.