It is essential that a strong bond exist before dating begins. Friendship is a phase to get to know the other person, determine common interests, and discover faults. Friendship creates a foundation on which true love can be built. A house cannot be constructed without a foundation, just as true love cannot be found without friendship. Without a foundation a house will surely fall during the first storm, just as a relationship will topple lacking friendship as its base.
Companionship presents a chance to establish an understanding for each other.
Trust begins to form as the relationship moves further. Trust begins to take a more definite shape when the couple begins to date. The couple has moved away from friendship and onto a more personal level. Usually it entails a social engagement, previously arranged, in which the couple goes out to dinner or a movie. Dating is not just limited to dinner and a movie, but it may also include a walk on the beach or dancing along with a wide variety of other activities.