Creating and cultivating healthy friendships takes some work. Friendship can be viewed as a pyramid with acquaintances at the bottom (and most numerous), casual friends, close friends, and at the top intimate friends (the fewest but most important). Formulating strong friendships can happen by working through the stages with someone you feel an attraction to. Sometimes the friendship makes it to the top and sometimes friends drift apart. Different types of friends can provide you with different relationships; someone you go to for advice, someone who is always fun, and/or someone you can learn from. Good communication, trust, honesty and mutual respect are key. Be the first to reach out to others, don’t wait for them to come to you. How do you show friends your appreciation? Who is your oldest friend?