Friends are like buttons in a way….
They hold the love-cloak fast against the day
When life storms buffet us with cruel strength,
And rend the garment to its entire length.
We lose them one by one, nor understand
That time was when our staying hand
Could hold and comfort them alone….
Surprise is ours when they are really gone.
The topmost button, always loose from too much use
Is like the friend whose kindness we so oft abuse…
The one our thanks are always slow to reach,
‘till lost he is and slipped from friendship’s leash.
The second button truly represents the one
We never miss until he is really gone.
Capable, kindly, filled with friendship’s grace
He comes so near to filling topmost’s place.
The third is like the friend who’s far away,
We do without yet need him every single day.
Careless we were when he was here
To smile and make each day less drear.
The fourth, so heedless how it holds the lap
Is like the carefree one who can fill up the gap
When real vicissitude comes down our way…
He … it is who longest stays to save the day.
All gone … yet cast not the love-cloak aside,
But wrap it tightly round with greatest pride
That worthy you have been of any friends….
It will comfort you …aye … unto the end.
Copyright © David Christensen 2001
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