Contrary to Crichton's opinion about a lover becoming a best friend, I think to build a strong, healthy relationship it is necessary. The definition of intimate states: marked by very close association, contact, or familiarity. Marked by a warm friendship. It is defined that in an intimate relationship, a warm friendship is essential. The friendship in a committed relationship is based on a shared history, intimacy, and commitment.
             A shared history involves both memories, and events. It attains moments when obstacles were conquered, when dreams were achieved, and when goals possibly failed. A shared history entails constant emotional support, being there through and for anything; the willingness to listen to ones problems, being open-minded about differences, and the compliance to compromise. In times of need, there is a shoulder to cry on, a sense of compassion for one another, and a bond through trials of error and or victory. That all, being done together as one, creates a sense of comfort, support, and loyalty.
             Intimacy involves a sexual association to a relationship. As Crichton puts it, "Sexual tension charged the lines of communication between us. White noise crackled on the wire as desire and jealousy, fear of loss, and the need to be loved conspired to cloud and distort expression." When sex is included in a relationship, emotions erratically build, and get stronger. Boundaries are set, and territory is marked. The need for constant reassurance is vital. Through intimacy, secrets, flaws, and personal experiences are exposed; which creates a stronger bond. A sense of affection, the ability to comfort one another in time of need, the power to genuinely care about one another indefinitely, intensifies the connection.
             There is commitment in any intimate relationship. Because sex intensifies emotions and feelings, there is an automatic sense of compassion for one another. The need to...