Friends.. are they real?

FRIEND defined:

1) A person whom one knows, likes, and trusts.
2) A person whom one knows; an acquaintance. (probably where most of my "friends" fall)
3) A person with whom one is allied in a struggle or cause; a comrade.

Who are your real friends? Who will be there for you in your time of need or will even notice if you disappear off the face of the earth? It seems as though a large number of my "friendships" are fabricated around social gatherings... so what happens when I stop participating in them? Is it really that shocking to discover that I actually study or do other things other then go out?

I hate the impression that the vast majority of people have of me... that the only value I have as a friend is a party buddy. I've always been the one to take initiative and actively solicit people to hang out in a attempt to build a stronger bond but usually to no avail. My faith in people and friends has been dwindling exponentially with each passing day. There are of course a few individuals that still keep me afloat from becoming a absolute hermit. Thanks! You can puke on me and I'll still be your friend =P

In my personal opinion true friends should possess a few simple characteristics:

1) freedom of expression- to be able to freely express ones candid opinions w/o fear of retribution
2) trust- anything articulated to a friend should be kept confidential, especially if told expressly
3) considerate- sincerely concerned about a friends well being, rather then merely using the association to further personal needs

P.S. Bye Friendster, my private life will be forever closed to the general public.