To me, a friend is someone who listens to what I say, takes it at face value, and in return tells me what they think...in the process, if we both learn something about ourselves, then we're friends.
For example: Last night I got a call from someone who hasn't been posting much lately, and we haven't talked for a couple of months. In the course of the almost 2-hour conversation, we both agreed that "dang it, you make me think!" (And trust me, that cuts both ways )
One phrase that sticks in my mind: "The discovery is in the dialogue."
Speaking of which; Sass, it's been a while since we chatted...when is your next 2-hour window? LOLOL
Craigster