Today

Today

I always give my friends a hug to show how much I care

And strangers in the street I meet – a smile with them I share,

I try not to take offence at people and forgive very easily,

Because tomorrow might be very different for the likes of you and me.

We all get our bad days and our problems too

But glad I helped to spend some time and listened closely to you.

If that made a small difference in your life, I’m glad to say I’m here,

But tomorrow is another day and things might not be so clear.

I do not care about material things, as they have not got feelings;

A new car can’t keep you company like that of human beings.

A simple chat, a cup of tea and a laugh about your day

As tomorrow could be very different from the day we knew today.

I am a little frightened of getting very close –

But try to be a good friend to the ones I like the most!

To be honest, there have been times when life has not been fair

And worry that when tomorrow comes, you might not be there.

It matters a great deal that time is found – a tiny sacrifice;

Life is very precious and does not carry a price.

The housework can wait, bills will be late – we’ve made a date!

Through when tomorrow comes we'll not know what’s in our fate.

Of my friends, some old, some new who are equally unique,

Have a special place in my heart and whose secrets that I keep.

And that includes the friends so dear that are not here today

But must move on, look up and forward, not dwell on yesterday.

Behind these laughs, over the years, there has been some pain,

At times there’s been too much to bear, but through the cloud and rain

I’ve started to enjoy today – begun to feel at peace again

With thoughts of yesterday and to smile at friendships gained.

Through the haze I see the beginning of a sunny day

And know today has just begun and life seems much less grey.

I give my friends a hug; it’s not that because I’m gay!

It’s just a little thank you for helping some pain to go away.

Linda Lawrence

27^th November 2007