Yes, I believe this of friendship. I also believe that I should not feel betrayed if my friends have lives that get in the way of my needs and wishes. It happens, sometimes for very long stretches. My faith in them remains, whether I get to hang out with them or not.

I also find that when I go ahead alone I often find opportunities that would not be available to me if I had company.

You are right. Friendship is a 2 way street. If you are the only one trying to make plans to go out or calling on these friends than it is time to go explore new friendships. Start doing some volunteer work and getting out to groups. Look in the paper for support groups, film clubs etc and join up. Libraries sometimes have good groups. Don't give up on your friends...just expand your friends circle and explore some new options with people who have things in common with you. Friends come and go as we get older and there is nothing wrong with that. Think of it as an adventure. A test drive of new friends.