Friendship

"A Friend"
by Wes Fessler

There is not a greater treasure of esteem among mankind;
there is not as rare an honor that a soul will ever find,
than a friend without condition, never yielding when in strain.
One who shares a common vision both in pleasure and in pain.
There is nothing as uplifting when life crumbles into dust,
as a friend who shares your feelings and in whom you place your trust.
Knowing well your word in private will in privacy remain;
that in future times of worry you can speak your mind again.
There is strength in such a friendship one can find no other place,
and a confidence to deal with any challenge you may face.
There is nothing as relieving when you have something to say,
as a friend who cares to listen and to look at things your way.
A friend who thinks no less of you if what you say seems wrong,
but shares an honest point of view that may make you more strong.
There is not a greater blessing than to have a loyal friend,
who in spite of confrontation will stand by you to the end.
There is nothing of more value than to have a friend so true.
It is my most precious honor having such a friend as you.