A True Laugh

When that one friend notices that pain you tried so hard to hide,

When they took the effort to see that you've cried.

That friend that cares so much they will seem to stop time,

To make sure that you are okay, that are truly well and fine.

That friend that seems to always know exactly what you need,

Whether its a phone call or a hug, like some knight on their steed.

They show up in pj's with takeout in hand,

Uncaring of the time of day or night, just willing to understand.

That one friend is like a pillar, strong and firm,

Always a steady hand ready to reaffirm.

Ready to hold back hair or give a firm squeeze,

Ready to give soup or medicine for every cough and wheeze.

They will not look down on you from up above,

But crawl with you through the trenches and in the mud.

They will walk the sharp path, and step on every sharp stone,

All just to make you feel less alone.

And when the storm has passed and the sky is clear,

You will look to your side to see that friend still near.

They will look back at you tired and worn,

Their face and clothes just as battered and torn.

And yet despite the battle that you have just overcame,

They are there still, with their smile still the same.

For they knew that the journey would be hard,

But for them you were worth it, worth every step and yard.

And in that moment when the clouds have cleared and the sun shines once more,

You look to see them still there, where they will stay forever more.

And in that moment a laugh starts to come through,

And this laugh is a true laugh from deep within you.

For that friend is with you until the very end,

And that very true laughter thanks to that friend.