What is a true friend ?

Friendship is a complex topic. And a difficult one for many people, me included.
After I was disabled by a stroke, nearly 8 years ago, at least half the people who I thought of as friends never contacted me again.
I've been told that's not really unusual.

I had an episode on my YouTube channel not long ago, about some different kinds of friendships.
You may find it helpful:
https://m.youtube.com/watch
If you are a good friend, don't change. It will be rewarded.

I have been fortunate because I have had some wonderful friends. I would add that I lived in Italy for almost 18 years and there, friendships are deeper than in the US. In a moment of great sadness, my Italian friends really looked after me, and I will never forget their kindness. Now the years have passed, and some are gone but I still talk to my best Italian friend. We are old, both with health problems, but we can still talk. Some people here call others their "friends" but those are really just acquaintances. I think it helps if you "go through some things together" Be there for them and they will be there for you.

@nallyator19571031
Hello, you posed an excellent question.

I’m 77, have been divorced 3 times. The last was 8 years ago.
Our marriage ended after 17 (for me) horrible years.
I was emotionally abused.

Now, I live with myself and love it.
I developed a chronic illness as did he.
Every night at 8:00 sharp, he calls me and asks if I’m doing well.
I am very happy to share the experiences I had during the day.
He does the same. We listen, offer advice if asked for, laugh at our silliness, and with gratitude we wish each other good night.

We have put the ugliest parts of our marriage aside and just relaxed into friendship.
He and I will always have our friendship.
It takes work. Being able to help each other forged a friendship I never thought possible.
He still aggravates me. I can listen, shake my head and hang up my phone.

He is almost 80. I dread the day when he will be gone.

@scottrl my daughter had a bad stroke and all of my family and my wife’s family abandoned my daughter. Very sad.

@nallyator19571031
That is tragic.
I don't understand how humans can be so uncaring.
Someone told me that it's not indifference but not knowing what to say.
I'm not sure.
But it really hurts to be on the receiving end of it.

I hope your daughter is doing well.