Be there when they need you, or you may wind up alone.
Cheer them on, we all need encouragement now and then.
Don't look for their faults, even if you have none.
Encourage their dreams, what would we be without them?
Forgive them, you just MAY do something wrong sometime.
Get together often, misery loves company, so does glee.
Have faith in them, the human animal is remarkable.
Include them, you may need to be included sometime.
Just be there when they need you.
Know when they need a hug, and couldn't you use one?
Love them unconditionally, that is the ONLY condition.
Make them feel special, because aren't we ALL special?
Never forget them, who wants to feel forgotten?
Offer to help, and know when "No thanks" is just politeness.
Praise them honestly and openly.
Quietly disagree, noisy NO's make enemies.
Really listen, a friendly ear is a soothing balm.
Say you're sorry, don't let them assume it.
Talk frequently, communication is important.
Use good judgment.
Verbalize your feelings!
Wish them luck, hopefully good!
Xamine your motives before you "help" out.
Your words count, use them wisely.
Zip your lips when told a secret.
When troubles come your soul to try
You love the friend who just stands by.
Perhaps there's nothing he or she can do
The thing is strictly up to you.
For there are troubles all your own
And paths the soul must tread alone
Times when love can't smooth the road
Nor friendship lift the heavy load.
But just to feel you have a friend
Who will stand by until the end.
Whose sympathy through all endures
Whose warm handclasp is always yours.
It helps somehow to pull you through
Although there's nothing he or she can do.
And so with fervent heart we cry...
God Bless the friend who just stands by
--Robin Marie Sandersin
