Letter to an Old Friend

Today old friend, I'm taking time

To write a line or two

And tell you what it's meant to walk

Friendship's path with you.

It's meant companionship and love

When others turned aside,

Help for overwhelming tasks

That flow with every tide.

It's meant when e're my feet have strayed,

You did not pass me by,

But clasped my lonely hand in yours

And held hope's candle high.

It's meant that worry, fear, and doubt

Were never borne alone;

For years ago, within your heart,

The seeds of care were sown.

It's meant my home, my dress, my ways,

Need not bow to style.

You've thoughtfully overlooked my flaws

With friendship's loving smile.

And now, old friend, I'll close with this,

Just here at the end,

And let you know my life is rich

From knowing you, my friend.

~ Helen Barker