I do agree that most friendships are a result of pure luck or coincidence. That's why they come and go and vary in quality. How long they last doesnt always define their character though. Some of the most valuable friendships I had only lasted for a short while.

I've known my best friend for a long time though. Is it pure luck? Do we share a crucial amount of views? Or have we over the years learned how to negotiate our friendship? I like to believe its a combination of all these things and some more we are not aware of ourselves. Just like you said, it's a complicated issue.

It chills my heart to read that you find most relationships distant and cold. Let me just send you a digital bro-hug. ;-)