Thurman P. Woodfork

BEST FRIEND

Lord, why couldn’t I just see…
that the first person I must love is me?
I finally lost the anger and pain,
and realized all there was to gain.
I recovered all I’d been deprived of
by never offering myself my love.
I sought from others what I already had –
the ability to make my own heart glad,
and faith that would never let me down;
a true friend who is always around
at the moment when I need one most.
Instead of heeding the urge to coast,
I find I’m back on my feet again;
who could ask for a better friend?
I summon the strength that resides
stored securely deep inside
the inner reservoirs of my soul –
that vital essence that keeps me whole.
I’ve found the power from within
to live in peace with other men;
it steadies and guides me on my way
toward the grace in every day.

Author’s Note: Inspired by a comment from Colin “Buck” Jones. Submitted for the July 2004 IWVPA Club Theme Project, “Loyalty”