A good relationship, the soul of a friendship, rests on a number of qualities. It gives a sense of security–we know that we are not alone in life. It provides a consciousness of social belonging–we know that given this friend we now have a welcome place in the groups of which we are a part. It holds a reassurance of personal significance–we know that we are worthwhile because there is someone who thinks so when we ourselves doubt it most. It implies a promise of assistance–we know that if something happens to us someone, somewhere will wake to the sound of the phone, and will come to help us. It opens up the prospect of guidance–we know down deep that when we are confused there is someone who will help us thread our way through the maze. And it fulfills the need for nurturance–we look for someone who will help us to become, to grow.

--The Friendship of Women