Be Inspired Today

When you think of friendship, what comes to mind? Do you think about what traits you look for in a friend? What common interests do you share with friends? What would life be like without good friends? As you think about these questions, I hope you will take the time to read this poem. I found it a few years ago, but liked it so much, that I decided to dig it up again. Enjoy!

"Portrait of a Friend"
I can't give you solutions to all of life's problems, doubts, or fears.
But I can listen to you, and together we will search for an 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 aren't 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!

(author unknown)
Please, feel free to post a comment of your own about this poem or any of the above questions.
Thanks.