West Saxon has a word, cúþa. It is a useful, general word because it means someone whom you know to any degree. It is a word that can be used for a close friend, for a casual acquaintance, or for a cherished companion.

I like this word because it is more accurate than friend that sites like FaceBook or LiveJournal use. It weakens that word. You—I am generally speaking and not directly at anyone here—are not a freónd (friend) if I only know you from a few lines of online dialogue or if I only in person twice or thrice met you. You however are a cúþa—and there is no wrong with that—but not a freónd. Freóndsċipe (friendship) requires time, effort, and understanding. It is earned. Cýþþu (familiarity) with someone is easier. Freóndsċipe may spring from cýþþe, but they are not the same.

I do wish to end this entry to say that I am honoured that I have as many good cúþan who are here watching me at this site as I do have.

Iċ swíþe þancie eów, míne cúþan, míne fylġendas. Maniġe dúcas eów, and wesaþ tóþuniende.
(I greatly thank you, my acquaintances, my followers. Many dooks to you, and stay awesome.)

^.^