These are my top 10 ways of knowing a friend is close:
1. I don't feel on edge talking to them
2. We laugh about random things that otherwise wouldn't be funny.
3. I message them more than anyone else
4. I can sometimes predict what they're going to say or do.
5. They don't bring up past mistakes to patronise you.
6. I can imagine what they'd be doing even if not talking to them.
7. They respect my quirks and I respect theirs.
8. I can write a book of traits about them.
9. I don't get hurt when they tell me the truth.
10. I can tell them anything
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I'm sailing across Spectrum Sea, in my little boat.
The waters of the port were choppy. After I set off, there was a long, massive storm.
Years later, however, the sea calmed. I'm still on tranquil sea, but I'll never reach the Neurotypical Beach.