On the Virtues of a True Friend

 

Though I have many friends, and many people I know

Most are just temps; They come, and they go.

 

There are just a few friends I have that are true.

But in this respect, I've always counted on you.

 

You've taught me, and helped me, and shown me the way

A good person lives in the world of today.

 

You've given advice and you've lent me an ear

When the burdens of life were too heavy to bear.

 

We've talked and we've joked, and we've jested together,

Until those troubles I had seemed as light as a feather.

 

You've given me courage, strength, assurance, and hope,

And when things didn't work out, well, you've helped me to cope.

 

My thoughts are much clearer, and problems smaller to me,

Whenever your kindness helps me to see

 

That life's little troubles, its trials, its fight

Shrivel to nothingness in friendship's warm light.

 

You may not have noticed, but I assure you it's true:

I couldn't have become who I am without you.

 

For you've been to me kind and gentle, yet strong,

So that when I have faltered, you've helped me along.

 

Some people never find a friendship like this

For them I am sorry; it's a thing not to miss.

 

So, I've one final message, then I'll disappear:

Mine is a better world because you are here.

 

Thank you.