I thought that what separates a good friend and a normal friend is that a good friend will be able to feel whatever you are feeling. Meaning to say our thoughts and feelings are synchronised. Jiexi cried over my sad incidents with me, so have I over her sad happenings. Needless to say, we are best friends, and I appreciate her synchronisation a lot. I felt that at least someone cares and understands.
Hippo's thoughts differ. He reminded me that I should pull myself out of the picture, so that I will be able to provide better guidance and support. A good friend should be calm and logical enough to act as a 避风港 for the other party, which is also valid.
Regardless of our difference in thoughts/ definition. We have different roles to play as friends.
According to joycelynpedia.com, another characteristic of a good friend is to be able to carry out engaging, enlightening and thought intriguing conversations with one another. :)