Well this depends on the context of the friendship. I've met people on Hubski (thenewgreen, b_b, lil) that have really helped me. In fact, they have been more dependable and reliable and friendly than many people in my real life. There is no reason why those friendships are less important or meaningful than friendships I've made in physical communities. Also, as thenewgreen said, we would hang out in real life if it was possible (and I'm sure it will happen in the future). In fact, geographic barriers are the only reason Hubski meet ups don't happen more frequently. lil and I happen to be at the same university and she was kind enough to meet up for coffee on two occasions to help me with my writing. So you can't generalize and think that all friendships that start online are forever destined to stay there.

Also, you are invited to my funeral (if I die, which I won't).

EDIT:

In fact I was recently out for beers with one of my roommates work friends and I was bored to death. I was just thinking in my head how much more fun I would be having if I was at a Hubski meet up.