Someone who loves us with an unconditional love that welcomes us into the forever family, regardless of how messed up we are. The following was part of the original message. I have only included it for the sake of completeness. Use it or not, as you wish. You don't know how it happens or when it gets started.
Friends are a very rare jewel, indeed.
They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. They lend an ear, they share a word of praise, and they always want to open their hearts to us.