I’m the type of friend that thinks shouting, “You forgot your rash cream!” when dropping you off for work is hilarious.

Needless to say, I’ve found it takes a very patient and dedicated person to keep up with me.

These people, I call suckers…er, friends.

For example, today I received a text from a friend who told me he just counted how many times he saved a goofy voicemail I left him two years ago. With saving every 21 days over 104 weeks, that’s 35 saves, which is some admirable dedication considering the message is me saying, “Hello,” repeatedly in a confused voice.

This, to me, is a comforting confirmation that my friends are probably as looped in the head as I am.

And yet, despite scary phone calls, repeated pranks and arguments with no basis, many have stayed tried and true.

However, I haven’t always been so lucky. It’s amazing the people we latch onto when seeking companionship.

Like when I was 14. I accidentally untied a bow that was fastened onto a friend’s bag that I had assumed was sewn on. False. The green ribbon became undone and so did our friendship; it was the bow that broke the purse’s back. Though it devastated me at the time, hindsight assures she was never really that great to me anyway.

And although at times childhood and teenage years were baffling ordeals among the different social groups I belonged to, I have been fortunate enough to find some folks who are still excited to watch The Simpsons with me every single time we hang out.

These are the types of relationships to truly value in life, for they are few and far between, and it’s equally as important to reciprocate. At times when I was low, courageous and loving friends were always by my side. When a friend of mine’s car was towed the day after helping me move to a new city, I happily waited the 10 hours it took to get it back. This mutual love is a beautiful thing.

So now, as I prepare to graduate and start a new life out of state, I am faced with the heart wrenching reality that weekend Simpsons won’t always be an option.

However, I don’t fear these relationships will dissipate, because at the core of our friendship is the common knowledge we are forgetful, flaky and stretched too thin, but have always made it work.

Sustainable friendships, like all other sustainable things, can be weather-worn on the outside, but if taken care of properly, can be durable forever. It’s all a matter of time management, communication and the occasional “I’m sorry,” gift for when you drunkenly throw up in their car while they’re driving you home.

As for me, my friends are troopers and know me better than I know myself.

Whether I’m calling to chat or pretending to be a police officer, they love me the same. And for that, I’m forever grateful.