If every unpaid act were invoiced, which relationships would suddenly look unaffordable?

A great deal of what holds relationships together is unpaid and uncounted. The lifts, the listening, the childcare, the meals, the practical help, all of it would appear on a bill as substantial amounts, and the fact that it is not billed is precisely what makes it a relationship. Priced, most close ties would look unsustainable.

The useful move is not to start counting but to notice who is carrying more than they mention. Thank someone specifically for something they do routinely. And check whether the unbilled work in your own close relationships is distributed anywhere near evenly.