Friends Poem by Kevin Averett

A relationship is growing
and there seems to be no end
to the things we have in common
but I cannot be your friend.

I will have no strength to offer
there is none for you to take
if the bank that you are building
is the same one you would break.

I cannot offer comfort
when you cry out in the night
needing someone to protect you
from the things which give you fright

for I cannot give assistance
when your enemies attack
if I'm lying in a pool of blood
with knife wounds in my back.

Until now, you've been the teacher
but it's time for you to learn
that the friendship you have given me
is all I can return.

The term 'friend' I'm not deserving
and there's nothing I can do
until the day you realize
you need to be one too.