What Do We Owe Our Friends?

What do we owe our friends? We owe them love, not fear,
Love that the closer clings when storms are near;
Love that shall speak in eye, in voice, in hand,
And steadfast stand.

What do we owe our friends but loyalty and trust?
Forever faithful, sympathetic, just;
A peerless comforter, and shield and guide,
Whate’er betide.

What do we owe our friends? The kinship of good deeds,
A soul responsive to their deepest needs,
To share life’s burdens all the weary way,
And watch, and pray.

What do we owe our friends? The patience which forbears;
And fond communion ’mid their joys, their cares;
A gracious spirit firm to do its best,
Nor doubt, nor rest.

What do we owe our friends? Kind thoughts and pleasant cheer
Born of affection tender and sincere,
And ready service, the efficient seal
Of earnest zeal.

What do we owe our friends? We owe them love, not fear,
Love that the closer clings when storms are near,
Love that shall speak in eye, in voice, in hand,
And steadfast stand.