In between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day comes a lesser-known day we at Rewire Me love to celebrate: Best Friends Day. We’re aware of the vast number of research studies showing the positive effects close friendships have on our health and well-being, but we also know that best friends are simply a wonderful addition to our lives. “A best friend is someone you can be authentic and real with—someone to laugh with, cry with, and grow old with,” says Barbara Biziou, rituals expert, author, and friend of Rewire Me. “And a best friend thinks you are perfect just the way you are.”Here, a few other friends share who their best friends are and what makes them so special.

“All my life, my best friend has always been my mother. I trust her completely to know, understand, and accept who I am, in my best and worst moments. I continually learn so much from her about strength, comfort, support, creativity, perseverance, and caring. Most important, our 46-year-long friendship constantly ties me to a source of love that I can count on, grow from, and return.”

—Michele Rosenthal, certified professional coach, author, and blogger

“My best friend, without a doubt, is my wife, @Jenn_Grosso. I know, I know, it’s corny, but sometimes the truth is just that: corny. I’d say anyone you can share anything (and I mean anything) with constitutes best friend status. She’s also a shining example of what authentic spiritual living is to me: She’s not only unafraid to face ldifficult times, but she also has the willingness to explore the deeper teachings they hold for her in her life. And on the opposite side, she’s also not afraid to fully love and embrace life and all its treasures. It’s pretty much on a daily basis that I find myself wondering, ‘How the hell did I ever get lucky enough to meet this woman?’ And while I may never know the answer, my heart is constantly filled with gratitude nevertheless.”

—Chris Grosso, author and musician

“It took me a while to realize how much I liked my best friend. When we met, I mistook her plainspokenness for self-regard, failing to notice that she is one of the fairest, most solid people I’ve ever known. As a result, I tell my kids that it’s okay to revise first impressions.”

—Ayun Halliday, author and editor of East Village Inky

“My husband, Tino Plank, has been my best friend since the day I met him. He inspires me with the courage of his lion heart, his willingness to be present with deep joy and deep pain, and his amazing ability to create really terrible puns. I offer a magical wish for today: that everyone can find and love and live with their best friends!”

—Karla McLaren, author and empathy expert

“All my friends are my best friends because we share our hurts, sorrows, joys, and lessons. We support and nurture each other. They inspire me because they’re fearless and willing to learn and let go. And they’re teaching me every day!”

—Rose Caiola, founder of Rewire Me

What do you love about your best friend? Share your stories, memories, and thoughts in the comments…we’d love to hear them!

Click here to see more of Rose’s tips for healthy and happy relationships