I can understand this post exactly, albeit from a slightly different perspective. I would say I have three close "category 1" friends, but even though we've been friends for nearly 15 years, it's obvious (at least to me) that we're growing apart simply due to our lives moving in different directions. They're all married/engaged whereas I am not and even when I'm with them, I can still feel lonely. So, like you, I have friends, but I also sense the growing divide. 

One of the things I think is important is to consider the kinds of interactions you're having with your friends, category 1 or otherwise. My three "category 1" friends know me best, but I also interact with a lot of people online (via Twitter, blogs, etc.) in ways that I would never think of with my in real life friends. I'd much rather have a wide variety of friends because the different types of friendships and relationships are going to give me the different things I need from a friend. I may not find it all in one person, but I can find it in a bunch of people.