A FRIEND

A friend is someone...

...whose presence nourishes and revives your spirit,

...with whom to share ideas and experiences,

...with whom to exchange views freely, even though your opinions may strongly conflict,

...in whom you can confide,

...who, though not wishing to cause you suffering, will nevertheless do so if he earnestly believes it to be for your own good,

...on whose shoulder you can cry,

...who earns — but never demands — your respect and trust, and who likewise respects and trusts you,

...to turn to in time of need,

...who would increase his own burden in order to lessen yours, and for whom you would gladly do the same,

...whose joys and sorrows are yours as well,

...whose loss you mourn in the very depths of your being.

 

=SAJ=