A Friend

A friend is one who stands to share

Your every touch of grief and care.

He comes by chance, but stays by choice;

Your praises he is quick to voice.

No grievous fault or passing whim

Can make an enemy of him.

And though your need be great or small,

His strength is yours throughout it all.

No matter where your path may turn

Your welfare is his chief concern.

No matter what your dream may be

He prays your triumph soon to see.

There is no wish your tongue can tell

But what it is your friend's as well.

The life of him who has a friend

Is double-guarded to the end.