[SouthDixie]

felt more responsibility towards each other.

The problem with friends is, most people want friends but don't know how to be one.

[alexander_busek]

The problem with friends is, most people want friends but don't know how to be one.

I whole-heartedly agree with your sentiment!

This is obviously a very complex issue, but if I may pick out a single item which puzzles me most:

Time and time again, I have observed (not only in my own relationships, but also, from afar, in the relationships of others) that many people who regard themselves as faithful friends who would go to great lengths to help a friend, are constitutionally unable to maintain these relationships once the other person is out of "earshot" or "eyeshot." Apparently, the mere "mechanics" of updating address books, informing others of their change of address, sending at least pro-forma Christmas and birthday greetings, or responding to messages, overtaxes these people.

Does anyone have an explanation for this phenomenon?

Regards,

[One_Upmanship]

I lost my friend. He died about 4 years ago.

[Victor]

Probably why I have maybe 4 that I can account for in my entire life as true friends.