[Spirit]

Hey Love Shack... I'd just like any thoughts on my questions.

Many people would advise one not to fall (too early?) into the "let's just be friends" zone with that person with whom one is seeking a romantic relationship. (e.g. if somebody says "let's just be friends", s/he should interpret that as meaning "I have no romantic interest in you.") So many people even end the friendship at this point.

But the individuals in the majority (60%+) of long-term successful marriages began their loving relationships as "friends first". (I can dig up the reference on this.)

So my questions are these: (1) if you're a person seeking a prospective long-term partner, let's say for marriage, wouldn't you want him/her to be your true friend first? Or what did I miss here?

(2) If you're in a successful long-term relationship, were you both initially friends or did the friendship mature afterwards, or can you become best friends?

Thanks!