"Portrait of a 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 the answers.

I can't change your past with all its heartache and pain,

nor 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 and 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.