"I get by with a little help from friends" is a popular saying with age-old wisdom behind

it. That people need help is something we have long understood, but more recent research has confirmed the relationship between good health and good social relationships. For infants, the lack of human interaction may actually retard(妨碍) the development of intelligence. Adults who seek supportive social relationships find greater longevity and have less chance of developing a disease.

Most of us don't develop relationships to increase our life spans or to improve our minds and bodies. Such improvements are side effects. Instead, most people seek relationships with others to feel love, gain companionship, or simply to have fun. Mutual interests can be basis for new relationships. A good way to find new friends is to get busy doing the things you love to do. The way, you're likely to meet people who share a similar interest and a similar view of the world.

A good relationship helps you feel lovable and capable. It serves as a support system, allowing you to develop your full potential as a person. One of the most wonderful things you can do for friends is to help them develop their self-concept as they help you develop yours. Reinforcing (加强) people's positive perceptions of themselves frees them to discover their strengths and to wrestle with their shortcomings. What's even more remarkable is that such reinforcement also helps you feel better about yourself.

By quoting the popular saying, the author wants to tell us that ______.

A．people don't need friends very much nowadays

B．friends are no longer of great help

C．people today need friends more than ever before

D．friends help people have a long life