I don't believe friendship is based on 'need'. Friendship is based on common likes. When two people like the same things, be it games, movies, activities, what ever. That is where most friendships begin. Then after sharing in these common likes, the ability to rely on each other for the 'needs' you mentioned, will develope. If a friendship starts out based on need, it is not a real friendship. Could it grow into one, sure. But in my opinion, it won't be the same type that is grown out of a commopn interest. I have a group of friends, whom have been together for over 15 years now. We are any uncommon lot, from what I have been told. 8 people who have stayed close and would do anything for each other. These friendships grew from role-playing games when we were younger. And they have held fast the whole time. I also have 2 friends, more like brothers. One I met in 5th grade, the other in 11th. Though both of them live far away now, i know if I needed either one, they would be here. Even though I don't see them, they are in my thoughts. When a particular show comes on tv, or a song plays on the radio or any number of other things happens, I think of them. True friendship is a love first, a desire second and a need third. At least, thats my take on it. --Eryk

Hmmm, that is a very well structured and well though-of argument. I see your point and I have to say that I do agree with you. I tend to look down upon the world as a whole and assume the worst of values, that is why I also tend to see the dark side of each coin. I think I was mostly only looking at those 'friendships' created almost entirely upon the basis of need. In my own personal defence, I'd have to say here that on an 'up close and personal' basis, I show people more trust and understanding than I should. It's the world as a whole that I'm having trouble trusting heheh

To me friendship is about sharing something special with that person that is memorable, whether it be a movie, a good talk that left you feeling good or something else. Friendship to me seems to be something that you call people you feel close to or know. I myself have a few selected true 'friends'. I may not talk to them everyday but I know if the need arises I can call and talk to them, or 'hang out' with them to occupy my mind. Friends just give you a good feeling. With people you just met, you normally say "this person I met" or "this person I talked to today" But then if I get to know them or spend time with them, you will then say "I talked to my friend today" or whatever the case may be. Basically to me a friend is someone that you have a memory with that you enjoyed, no matter how simple it is, or how little time you spent together. You may not talk to an old friend for years, but then suddenly you talk to them and you use the word 'friend' when referring to them. A friend seems to be something that lasts, and it can be used generally but normally there is always a memory behind the word 'friend'. After all, you don't call a stranger a 'friend.' Hope my view made some sense :)

It does make sense and it is also a good point. There are of course other people who use the term "friend" very likely. Usually tradesmen, where they go, "There you go my friend." Calseeor successfully covered one facet of friendship and Esme has successfully covered another. I attempted to cover all and failed miserably heheh

Friendship to me means having someone just drop by to read the morning paper and chat over coffee, who if you need to do some chores first before you can go..will pitch in and help. Friendship is feeling so comfortable around each other..that you can just be yourself.. be natural and have no pretences..it's an unconditional love.