It took two bad lungs
And a broken heart
To finally tear
My world apart
Barely alive
In intensive care
Hoping friends would
Visit me there
Most were too busy
To visit at all
To send a card
Or bother to call
Barely able to breathe
Alone and in pain
I felt betrayed
And they were to blame
But the truth came suddenly
A cold and bitter wind
To have the love I wanted
I’d need to BE a better friend
I made a vow to the broken man
Who had ‘til then been me
I’d get well and then become
The best friend that I could be
I became one who could be counted on
No matter what the plight
From a shoulder to cry on
To help on a rainy night
My life is so much better
I am truly blessed
For when it comes to friends
I now have the very best
–Russ Towne
Russ Towne's A Grateful Man 
Oh how true these words are Russ… to receive one must first give without expecting anything in return.. then one makes friends… yet I have met so many that won’t go to visit a friend in hospital as they don’t know what to say to them… funny that when all one wants is company that will talk about anything except ones problems…
I believe you are right on regarding giving without expecting anything in return. That is a key. (Identifying and avoiding sponges is another! ;-D! ) Being there without saying a word is often enough. It says I care and that right now I’d rather be with you than anywhere else. That’s a powerful message.
Thank you for your comments, bulldog.
Russ
I find only later in life you really make the best friends. I have only one friedn left from Germany when I left the country, but now as you here in London and living here for the last 25 years, I have the best ever. We are blessed and I cherish and love my wonderful friends.
Giving without expecting has to be learnt, as everyone always wants something in return. A good healthy relationship with yourself is the best beginning! Great poem Russ!!
Thank you for your kind comments and insights, Ute. I’m glad–but not surprised–that you have such wonderful friends, as the reflect the wonderful person you are.
I agree that a good healthy relationship with oneself is an excellent place to start. I’ve still got a lot more work to do!
Russ
Sad, beautiful, poignant and inspirational.
Thank you, Michelle.
Russ
It’s a lesson that we must learn….Diane
I agree. I was lucky to have learned it at a young age.
Russ
I can’t imagine this as a lesson you had to learn Russ..and though I delight to know you are well, I still maintain that you are arguably a model for friendship that others would be well-served to emulate.
Your comment warms my heart this morning, Mimi. Thank you!
Russ
I’m with Mimi, Russ. Cannot imagine that YOU would ever be in this man’s shoes. You clearly understand what it means to give from the heart. Your kindness comes through in every post….
Your message means a lot to me, Lori. Thank you for your kind comment.
Russ
It’s a hard lesson. But wow what a rewarding one.
Agreed on both counts! Thank you.
Russ
Isn’t it great to BE a LIVING miracle of change? Our mess. His message.
Thank you for your kind comment, Heather. I believe that all of life is a miracle. I attempt to be worthy of all the blessings I receive, falling short, and attempting again. May you always feel welcome at my humble online home.
Russ
Thanks Russ and may you feel at home on my web spot too. 🙂
Heather
Thank you, Heather.
Russ
Never a truer word spoken!
Thank you for your kind comment, Willow! May you always feel welcome here.
Russ