A Friend

A friend is one who stands to share
Your every touch of grief and care
He comes by chance, but stays by choice
Your praises he is quick to voice

No grievous fault or passing whim
Can make an enemy of him
And though your need be great or small
His strength is yours throughout it all

No matter where your path may turn
Your welfare is his chief concern
No matter what your dream may be
He prays your triumph soon to see

There is no wish your tongue can tell
But what it is your friend's as well
The life of him who has a friend
Is double-guarded to the end.