Along life's path, we wind our way,
Meeting people by night and day.
No greater privilege shall we reap,
Than the gift of friendship, a treasure to keep.

Like the oyster with its pearl rare,
Friendship is nurtured with time and care.
Filled with warmth and affection too,
True friendship blossoms, rare to few.

There is no reason to the things that we do,
We can break a heart with just a word or two.
But when to a friend we apologise,
We know they understand by the look in their eyes.

And when for their help we turn to call,
Their footsteps will be heard, quickly to fall.
Like the Angel of Mercy, they readily appear,
To bring words of comfort to those held dear.

Deeds of boldness, ever ready,
Their bond of friendship, ever steady.
In times of trouble, sadness and pain,
What wealth a friend - to hold again.

(c)John McKay Withey