Isn't it amazing how some people can be so different out of highschool. Some never grow up. But many, probably most, do reform. It's good you were able to hook up with this old nemesis and become friends. It does help heal the old injuries.
Yes, I'm glad we are friends now. I think it helped put closure on that painful time in my life. I know this sounds stupid, but I'm not kidding here. It was traumatizing to me. I swear, it took me forever to get over it. I hated school soooooooooo much, until I graduated, and I think it had a lot to do with bullies. I'm sure it affected my grades.
Also, one thing I've noticed and sometimes I wonder if women ever out grow this... Boys can duke it out behind the school, and be best buddies again the next day out on the football field. Girls have a much longer memory and the bullying goes on for longer periods of time. With a boy, you just get a good quick pop in the face, and it's all over. But with a girl, it's a long and slow torture. LOL