Portrait of a Friend

I can't give solution to all life's problems,doubts, or fears.
But I can listen to you,
and together we will search for answers.

I can't change your past with all it's 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.......