Life Long Friend

A shoulder in the storm when others flee, A voice that cuts through silence, clear and true. In chapters dark and bright, you stand with me, The compass when my skies have lost their blue. Not bound by blood, but something just as deep— A choice renewed with every passing day. The one who knows which secrets I still keep, Yet loves the flawed mosaic anyway. We've traced our paths through decades, hand in hand, Through victories and wounds that leave their mark. Some bonds, like oak trees, strengthen as they stand, Growing more vital through both light and dark. Time's current flows, but some things never end— The rare and precious gift: a lifelong friend.????????????????