Friend, Mate, Amiga: Reflections On Friendship

For Nancy

I greet you with, “Hello, friend,”
a sacred salutation of recognition
of the deep connection that we share.
For it is in this space that we are united
by a bond deeper than blood.
For we choose each other
to share this short time on the planet.
We’ve shared so much over the years
that the depth of our laughter flows
from the earth in a cascade of water
rushing downstream in wild abandon.
Our hearts find comfort and safety
in each other’s company
when they’ve been shattered
by the sorrow that comes from living and loving.
As the seasons of our life continue to change,
and we face new challenges,
I’m grateful for the solace I’ve found
knowing that we traverse this road together.
Although we live far apart from each other,
when I hear your voice,
I will always feel that you are just around the corner.