Ode To A Friend

I lost a loyal friend this week
The truest one of all
Who listened quietly when I talked
And answered when I called

A friend who held no prejudice
No jealousy or hate
He never tried to change my ways
Or influence my state

He calmed me when I angered
Consoled me when I cried
He made me laugh, or simply sat
With me when I was quiet

We met when we were both still young
And full of energy
We roamed about outside for miles
And played contentedly

But then, when I got older
I chose to move away
A thousand miles across the sea
Cut off from yesterday

Yet every year when I returned
Our bond would be renewed
Though I had changed and seen the world
Our friendship still stayed true

I noticed though, as years went by
My friend was getting old
The life he lived, so wild and free
Began to take its toll

The time that I last saw him
I knew would be goodbye
He lacked that sprightly humour
And that twinkle in his eye

It seems to me he knew it too
Though he would never say
When I was home he stayed close by
My side throughout the day

My friend’s departure broke my heart
And left an empty hole
To lose a childhood friend creates
A gap within your soul

But in it, I will place a box –
A simple diary of
The memories he gave: Of joy,
Companionship and love

So here’s to you my special friend
You may no longer be
But you’ll play always in my heart –
The closest part to me

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