To most of us, the mere mention of the word 'friend' brings a warm feeling. We all need friends in times of troubles and in moments of joy.

Which of us knows the strength we have gained from the touch of a dear friend during troubled time? We also remember the deep joy we received when we had someone special to share with us a moment of great happiness.

A life without friends is indeed a lonely one. Studies have shown that most lonely people have shorter life spans and more psychosomatic illnesses than people who are surrounded by friends.

Jane McWhorter reminds us that friendship requires careful cultivation and should never be taken for granted.