"Since there is nothing so well worth having as friends, never lose a chance to make them."
- Francesco Guicciardini (Italian historian and statesman)

Anais Nin once said that "each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born". Friendship is something that we all need to survive these teen years and discover different aspects of our personality. The true 'top friends' should be persons in our lives who embody some or all of the characteristics described in this article.

The Fun Friend

Everyone needs a friend who is always up to having a good time. This is the friend who will be willing to do whatever it takes to make you happy. He or she will be spontaneous and willing to uplift your spirits when the cards are down.

The Positive Pal

The key word in this friendship is optimism. This person will always be there for you with something positive to say (even when you do and say silly things). He/she will always make you feel like a million bucks. This person will bring out the best in you. Your flaws and obvious mistakes will be brushed aside with a word of encouragement.

Honest Joe (or Jane)

Yes, yes, we know the truth hurts. You have to face it some time, and who better to hear it from than a true friend. We all need to be told when we are doing something wrong or even to hear that what we are wearing doesn't look as good as we thought. This is when honesty is crucial. The opinion of this friend is only voiced to bring out the very best in you. Hurting you is the furthest thing from their mind.

The Shoulder to lean on

We all have moments in our life when we feel really down. This is the time when this friend will come in handy the most. Supportive friends will always be there to help you through all the bad times.

The Mentor

This is the friend with excellent judgement skills. This person will be there to help you to reason through life's obstacles with a calming voice. He/she is also the friend who will cause you to question how you view certain things in life. This may even cause you to consider what truly motivates you and what you really want out of life. Discussions with this friend will definately be worthwhile.

The Friend of the Opposite Sex

This friend will give you insight on how your crush really feels or thinks. There are moments when we all feel a little clueless on the inner workings of the opposite sex; hence, this friend will be an asset. Who knows, maybe this person can fill in when you can't find a date for an important event.

The Friend who has a friend, who also has a friend Who ...

Well, you know what I mean. This is the friend with a lot of 'links'. This friend could be useful when you are in a very sticky situation and you need someone to bail you out. Please ensure that this friendship is always mutual (never forget when people do good things for you, that you need to return the favour). If you don't already have one of these. Please don't go trying to force a friendship with someone you think is like this.

Your Opposite

This is the person who is seemingly your opposite. This person may be much older than you are, much younger, shy (if you are very confident), from a different religious background or even a different race. Remember, variety is the spice of life. Trust me, you can always learn something new every day with this person around.

The Bookworm

This person will always keep you in check. He/she serves as a permanent reminder that your homework is due or that you have a test you need to prepare for.

Your Equal

This is the friend who people would probably classify as your 'brother from another mother'. This person is your confidant and truest friend of them all. You are most like this person and share mutual respect and love for each other.

The lady of the night, Spice (left), waves to her fans and friends while strutting with a svelte looking Lady Saw. -Nathaniel Stewart/Freelance Photographer