friendship

I have been pondering that word alot lately and what it "means". Means to whom? Me? Who else since meanings of everything are at the deciphering of the individual along with perceptions and opinions, etc. etc. Does friendship require a steady meeting of the minds or can people go for long periods without seeing or talking to each other? Does physical distance matter? Is it necessary for friends to agree on everything or almost everything or does a spark of difference keep things interesting? I've thought of long ago friends and wondered, are we still friends if we haven't ever "officially" ended the relationship?? I've thought of people I've been friendly with who differ from me in almost every way, particularly politically, and wonder if we can continue being friendly with such fundamental differences. I've been very close to people I've lived near and drifted apart after I've moved far away. I have much to ponder here and it's important to me, my friends are vital to me...they're part of my family. To be continued...