“All intimacy is rare - - that’s what makes it precious. And it involves the revelation of one’s self and the loving gaze upon another’s true self (no make-up, no fancy car, no defensive charm, no seduction) – that’s what makes it so damn hard. Intimacy requires honesty and kindness in almost equal measure (a little more kindness, I think), trust and trustworthiness, forgiveness & the capacity to be forgiven; … it’s more than worth it”. - Amy Bloom-