We always wish to know the charactristic of a true friend and it depends upon person to person and it varies too. I have pointed below from my own understanding and expectation how a true friend has to be

A true friend...
-Accepts you as you're
-believes in you
-calls you simply to mention "hello"
-doesn't surrender with you
-admires all sides of your temperament
-forgives your mistakes
-helps you
-encourages you to do it once more
-makes a distinction in your life
-says nice things concerning you
-offers his/her support
-understands you
-tells you the reality
-never judges you
-explains stuff you do not perceive
-walks by your aspect
-calms down your fears
-shouts if necessary, if you do not wish to pay attention
-raises you spirit.

 

source: http://www.bubblews.com/news/8201169-poem-a-true-friend