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 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.