Friendship
True friendship is defined by a basic need for close companionship. It is a bond between a group of people that share their lives, their dreams and find comfort and solace in each other's company.
A person may have many friends and may take courage from their support, and in the fullness of time as is often the case, friends find that their lives can take different paths.
Friendships can be severed, but rarely without pain.
As your life winds its way along its path, it may follow that you come to view these friendships objectively and see them for what they were, stepping stones through your personal growth.
If you are fortunate you may find that as you mature in years, one friend remains who has stood by you through the pains and twists of your life, for such a stalwart would you not pay a ransom, knowing that whatever thorns you must deal with, they would never turn their back upon you?
If you have such a friend, then you are indeed blessed.
I am one such fortunate enough to have such a friend, and I can attest to the joy, the comfort and the peace we both share.