Thank God for old friends
who take the long view—
who are not startled by temper flares
or momentary lapses of judgement.
The ballast of high regard
floats all ships:
you think well of me
and I strive not to disappoint.
Thank God for old friends
who see the lighter side,
who take great pleasure in double takes,
in funny accidents and awkward moments.
The helium of humour
lifts all spirits
as laughter shakes us up,
and we cannot catch our breath together.
Thank God for old friends
who hold out a steadying hand—
who are there with open ears
and sympathetic shoulders.
The engine of constant love
moves all mountains
as we share each other’s burdens.
Long-time God of friends,
thank you for my friends.
I am a Mennonite pastor currently teaching theology at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, Ontario. I’ve served congregations in Ontario and most recently, Alberta.