Those We Meet Along The Way Poem by Gary Bernard

Among life's paths where fates entwine, We sift through strands, each bond define. Acquaintance first, a simple nod, Paths cross—connections odd.

Yet friend we say with ease each day, As faces come, then fade away. Amid the many, few remain— True ties we build are rare to gain.

Through shared moments, trust takes root, From casual chat to deeper pursuit. A friend is found, in joy and woe, In laughter's echo, in sorrow's flow.

For social media walls and crowded streams Inflate the count but dull the gleams. Why do we chase this endless host, When few hold hearts and truly boast?

As years unfold and wisdom grows, We learn the truth that life bestows. Acquaintance, friend, and best align, Their roles in life more clearly shine.

Each link we form holds its own grace, Some may falter, but find their place. But through reflection, hearts discern To cherish deep, and lessons learn.

We honor friends of every kind, Each link has value, we will find. From fleeting chats to lifetime ties, In all, a spark of friendship lies.

A self-assured soul stands firm and clear, With circle small, but ever dear. For in their eyes, a truth is known: It's not the crowd but love that's shown.

To know a friend who's true and kind, See who stands by in troubled times. Do they reach out when storms arise, Or vanish, hidden in disguise?

We all will have more ties that fade Than those who in our hearts have stayed. It's okay, this is life's way, To keep the gems and cast the clay.

Yet real friends are the rarest find, Their presence marks the passing time. They lift you up in joy and strife, In moments bright, and dark of life.

In truth, all ties have roles to play, Each one brings light in its own way. And as we grow, we come to see The spectrum of our friends and be.

Though some connections may bring strife, They need not mar or rule our life. With strength and grace, we rise above And redefine what's known as love.

So let us prize the gems we find In life's vast sea of heart and mind. For in the end, though life moves on, Loyal friends remain, their light stays strong.

Each soul we meet adds threads that weave, Through our life's tapestry, a masterpiece. Every thread essential, none can be dismissed, Each encounter unique, our connections endure.

In life's grand weave, we all belong, Each thread a story, weak and strong. Through highs and lows, we persevere, Our human essence, flawed but real.