Tomboy

I have an old friend

So dear to me

Ever golden in the desert sun

She lives far away now

Across mountain ranges

Over grassy flatlands

Through the woods

She and her beautiful offspring

Their horses and goats

In a beautiful place

Where the Eagle soars

How happy am I

For how I have loved my friend

Always treasured her memory

From when we were young

When I dreamed she would choose me

It's fine, that was then...

But ever is she dear to me

Through hard years have I carried her

Navigating dark waters

She, tucked away in my heart

When the valleys were so low

Always in me somewhere

Maybe not in the forefront of my thoughts

But ever with me, precious in my sight

And when hope glimmered anew

I searched to find my friend

Rejoicing to find her well

And she thought to visit me

Caring for the pain of my journey

But all was not well

For she was not adequately honored

Her husband was not her equal

My friend was in need

I lost her again

But then heaven spoke

And again I searched

Again to find

But still the need

To prayer, to prayer:

"Father, my friend, my friend..."

I, so imperfect

In my fumbling ways

Seeking to serve

Wanting to help

And praying, praying

But there is One who is faithful

A Father who loves her so deeply

Who calls her children precious

Who watches and provides

And now:

There is much life

Hope anew, vision, a home

A nest for the youngsters

Hay for the horses

And more life

For a special friend

One so dear to my heart

Father, thank you

For chances to serve

For forgiveness and understanding

For a lifelong friend

A jewel in my crown

Stephen Pursell, 3/25/14