A Potrait of Friend

I can't give solutions to all

of life's problems, doubts, or fears.

But I can listen to you,

and together we will search for answer.

I can't change your past

with all its heartache and pain,

or the future with its untold stories. 

But I can be there now

when you need me to care.

I can't keep your feet

from stumbling.

I can only offer my hand

that you may grasp it and not fall.

Your joys, triumphs, successes,

and happiness are not mine.

Yet, I can share in your laughter.

Your decisions in life are not 
mine to make, nor to judge.

I can only support you, encourage you,
and help you when you ask.

I can't prevent you from falling 
away from friendship,

from your values, from me.

I can only pray for you,
talk to you and wait for you.

I can't give you boundaries,

which I have determined for you.

But I can give you the room
to change,
room to grow, room to be yourself.

I can't keep your heart 

from breaking or hurting. 

But I can cry with you

and help you pick up the pieces

and put them back in place.

I can't tell you who you are.
I can only love you and be your friend.