Some friendships grow through the years like a sort of “good” marriage where the ties are so strong that you feel what the other is feeling whether it’s happiness or pain, and the conviction that no matter what happens you are in it for the long run.

Friendships, often, are far better than marriages since the ties that bind you run deeper and go beyond a contract. There comes a time when the unwritten contract prevails and in trying times your heart only wants to care for the other.

When we are younger, our friendships may not be as ripe, but as time elapses and storms have been battled and won, they become like strong, weathered boats resisting the wear and tear of time. Our unwritten contracts become a deal: For better and for worse I’m here for you.

“Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead. Don’t walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.” 
― Albert Camus