friendship

by. rsj

voice of influence

positing goodness

voluntary sacrifice

the absence of measurement

constancy

of emotional proximity

with familiarity

that redefines family

loyalty

withstanding inquiries

protecting your dignity

and highest integrity

civility

not undermining respect

while respectfully,

finding moments to jest

dependability

for comfort and acceptance

with truth that doesn't yield

to feelings and what happens

generosity 

of validation and forgiveness

acknowledging we're doing our best

but are far from perfect

safety

to be ourselves

covering one another with love

that never fails