This is a lovely description of your friend and I see this as an important topic for those, like us, with a mental illness. I'm so glad you have "Lia", too.

I don't have a "Lia" like you do. I do have my husband, but I recognize that is slightly different. I wish I had a "Lia" type friend. I'm in dire need of one. I recognize my part in preventing that kind of relationship from happening for me. I don't mean myself or anyone else harm by it. It is complex. I know my bipolar disorder has played a significant role in my difficulties with friendships. I won't say such a friendship would be impossible for me, though. I know I have some work to do to fully develop one. Others have tried to offer such close relationships to me. I was my foe.