When 'friend' is not strong enough a word

Some people are brought into our lives for some small purpose, a fleeting moment in the eternities that guides us ever so subtly on our path. Others effect us awesomely. They boldly help to mold our very beings, to fill chasms and coax us to expand ourselves. They wash in like a tidal wave, turning us on our ear and morphing moments of fear into the thrill ride of a lifetime. They sand smooth the rough spots and build beautiful monuments on our souls. These are those that add fulfillment, that nourish and sate in the far reaches of our spirits. That settle themselves like puzzle pieces into the definition of who we are as if they belong permanently- because they do.