All friendships are special and important, but a flourishing, platonic relationship between a boy and a girl is very unique. Many people preach that guys and girls cannot be just friends, but I can testify that those people are wrong. I'll admit, a genuine, strictly friendly relationship between different genders is rare. But, I believe I speak for everyone when I say that it is one of the best relationships anyone could ever have.
They are obviously the best wingman—or woman—possible should you choose to utilize them. If you're ever in dire need of relationship advice, they're typically your best option. They're available to help decode any cryptic, irksome signs or messages from potential significant others, and they provide proper insight into the minds of other males or females. They see and understand things in ways that you simply cannot. So, when your two minds conflate, you're an unstoppable team of match-making for each other.
For a lot of guys, it is easier to express emotions in the presence of a female friend than it is with a male friend. Conversely, many girls find comfort in talking to a guy friend because they feel less likely to be judged. Because of this, they are usually the best listeners and they help with your problems more than any of your other friends. They allow you to drown them in depressing sagas about how your life is falling apart. But once you're finished, they are already enacting a plan to cheer you up. That's a good friendship.
They call you out on everything and they always have your best interest in mind. Sometimes people are stupid and irrational, and having a guy or girl best friend to bring clarity to the situation is imperative. It may be the quintessential reason for having this sort of friendship and it is something no one can afford to live without. Also, girls can usually tell when other girls are being disingenuous, and guys typically know a jerk when they see one. Same-sex friends often overlook red flags, but opposite-sex friends go into every situation with clear, unbiased eyes and are able to discern if the situation is a good one or not. It's a relief to have someone who can protect you from a bad situation.
You'll always have a date if you need one. No one likes going to events alone, especially if it is avoidable. Having an opposite-sex friend is like always having a date on standby. It can even be better than having an actual date. When you're with your best friend, there are no pressures to impress anyone and no need to incessantly run through the "date etiquette" checklist in your mind. You get to relax and have a good time without having to be alone.
Platonic relationships do exist and they always will. Despite the constant dismissing of the idea by many people, I can testify to their legitimacy and necessity. Having a guy or girl best friend is a requisite for being the best person you possibly can be. Being surrounded by only the same sex doesn't allow for much growth and development. Everyone needs to interact with the other gender in some way. I promise, it'll be the one of the best relationships you ever have, and odds are you won't get cooties.
