<html><head><meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"></head><body dir="auto"><div><div><b>“Bonds Of Friendship”</b> by Craig Burkholder</div><div><br></div><div>From the day that I first knew you,</div><div>Your heart was pure and kind; </div><div>Your smile was sweet and innocent,</div><div>Your wit was well refined.</div><div><br></div><div>The sparkle in your eyes was keen,</div><div>Your friendship fast and real;</div><div>Soft words were your virtue,</div><div>And humor your appeal. </div><div><br></div><div>We grew as friends together,</div><div>We laughed and shared our dreams;</div><div>Along the way crush or two,</div><div>Went unrevealed, it seems. </div><div><br></div><div>As years rolled on, our paths were split,</div><div>Our roads went separate ways;</div><div>We each pursued our interests,</div><div>That occupied our days.</div><div><br></div><div>We soon forgot our youthful bliss, </div><div>Of tender carefree years;</div><div>We didn't talk or keep in touch,</div><div>Throughout life's pain and tears.</div><div><br></div><div>Then my darkest hour came,</div><div>And tried me to my core;</div><div>To save my heart from ruin,</div><div>I closed and locked the door.</div><div><br></div><div>Then out of every nowhere,</div><div>With precise directed cue;</div><div>An old familiar smile, </div><div>Came slowly into view. </div><div><br></div><div>Although much time was gone, </div><div>And the die of fate long cast;</div><div>It was as if we hadn't missed,</div><div>A second of the past. </div><div><br></div><div>You listened with attentive care, </div><div>And reassured my mind;</div><div>That loving hearts are still alive,</div><div>With purpose and design.</div><div><br></div><div>Deep inside I've locked way,</div><div>Emotions yet untold;</div><div>As time goes on, and bonds grow strong,</div><div>They will all unfold. </div><div><br></div><div>So thank you, friend, for taking time,</div><div>To demonstrate your love;</div><div>It's yet another blessing that, </div><div>I'm undeserving of.</div><div><br></div><div>--------------------------------</div><br><div><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Seeya 'round town, Moscow, because . . .</span></div><div><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">"Moscow Cares" (the most fun you can have with your pants on)</span></div><div><a href="http://www.moscowcares.com/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000">http://www.MoscowCares.com</font></a></div><div><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></div><div><div><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Tom Hansen</span></div><div><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moscow, Idaho</span></div></div><div><br></div></div></body></html>