You're my friend, right?

I found myself consumed with questions surrounding what is a friend in the last lecture. Is it because we have never seen a friend physically in 'real life' that they can't be a 'friend'? I admit I have judged friends for having a text 'relationship' when they haven't met the other person. I mean, how can you call someone your boyfriend if you haven't even met them anyway?? O_o It's my belief that although one may share quite a bit of intimate information about them with another via txting or chat etc that the relationship may not be as successful when it comes to real life. A common downfall of these relationships I've found is trust or the lack thereof. But there is also the chemistry, that spark experienced virtually that falls short when it comes to physical companionship. Even when it comes to just plain old friends from school, people find it easier to relate to them online since they know their conversation would be filled with silence if held in person. I know I do.

In being a pessimist of online/txt friendship, I have to err 'give credit where it is due'. Explanation; The friendship and intimacy achieved virtually cannot be deemed any less important and meaningful to people involved. It's just a type of relationship that may not be as successful in the physical world.