To Thorsten

[alex_barstow]

I can't give solutions to all of life's
problems, doubts,
or fears. But I can listen to you, and together we
will
search for answers.

I can't change your past with all it's
heartache and pain,
nor the future with its untold stories.
But I can be there now when you need me to care.

I can't keep your feet from stumbling.
I can only offer my hand that you may grasp it and not
fall.

Your joys, triumphs, successes, and happiness are not
mine;
Yet I can share in your laughter.

Your decisions in life are not mine to make, nor to
judge;
I can only support you, encourage you,
and help you when you ask.

I can't prevent you from falling away from
friendship,
from your values, from me.
I can only pray for you, talk to you and wait for you.

I can't give you boundaries which I have
determined for you,
But I can give you the room to change, room to grow,
room to be yourself.

I can't keep your heart from breaking and
hurting,
But I can cry with you and help you pick up the pieces
and put them back in place.

I can't tell you who you are.
I can only love you and be your friend.