I do not envy those with many acquaintances. The relationship is just too loose. They slip away when you are falling.
I envy those with a few or even only one close friend. The relationship is stronger. They back you up when you are falling.
I envy even more those close to their family. The relationship sticks! They let you fall, they feel the pain, they go through it with you, they prepare you so that you are stronger even when they are not close by your side.