It is just been too long since I was in middle school!

This is like the "buddy".... but one receives some notification
that one has added you to a buddy list?

Then when you make a small mistake, or inadvertently (or on purpose offend someone) and then they take you off their "buddy"-friend list, YOU are notified?

In other words you don't have to type... "I am no longer your friend nah nnnah.nah nnnnaah.....naaaahhhhh" ?

I don't do my space type stuff. So I am clueless I guess, as
usual.

It appears, having the "friend" stuff off the forum obviously,
is basically a GOOD THING. It allows people with very social personalities a way to connect, leaving the boards more open
for the subject matter, to which they are assigned.

The one downside is for the shy types, who may feel left out.
Esp when people discuss friendships publicly alot.