HOW MANY FRIENDS?

The old man turned to me and asked
"How many friends do you have?"
I have 10 or 20 friends and I
 named off just a few...

He rose quite slow with effort
And sadly shook his head

"A lucky child you are
To have so many friends," he said

But think of what you're saying
There is so much you do not know
A friend is just not someone
To whom you say "Hello"

A friends a tender shoulder
On which to softly cry
A well to pour your troubles down
And raise your spirits high

A friend is a hand to pull you up
From darkness and despair...




When all your other "so called" friends
Have helped to put you there

A true friend is an ally
Who can't be moved or bought
A voice to keep your name alive
When others have forgot

But most of all a friend is a heart
A strong and sturdy wall
For from the hearts of friends
There comes the greatest love of all!!!

So think of what I've spoken


For every word is true
And answer once again my child
How many friends do you have???

And then he stood and faced me
Awaiting my reply
Softly I answered
"Only 1"