@suzanne2, I wrote an earlier response but think I failed to hit "reply". Like you, I have been blessed with truly and wholly trusted friends throughout my life and know the value they have added, especially in those times of greatest need.

I agree with your words of caution and would wish that everyone had someone in whom they knew "regardless of what was happening" they could rely upon. My mom was a stellar schoolteacher and once told me as I was starting my teaching career that as long as a child/ person has just one other who believes in, encourages and has their back, any individual has a great chance for future success and happiness. A true friend is a gift indeed. Thank you for your post.