A Poem for a Thursday #285

Freya Manfred is an American poet. She grew up in the Midwest and started writing illustrated poems and stories at age four. She has published at least eight poetry collections and has been featured in more than fifty anthologies. Her poetry revolves around themes of nature and human relationships. I liked this poem because I will be going home to Connecticut for a visit in a few weeks and I will be seeing some old friends.

Old friends are a steady spring rain,
or late summer sunshine edging into fall,
or frosted leaves along a snowy path—
a voice for all seasons saying, I know you.
The older I grow, the more I fear I'll lose my old friends,
as if too many years have scrolled by
since the day we sprang forth, seeking each other.

Old friend, I knew you before we met.
I saw you at the window of my soul—
I heard you in the steady millstone of my heart
grinding grain for our daily bread.
You are sedimentary, rock-solid cousin earth,
where I stand firmly, astonished by your grace and truth,
And gratitude comes to me and says:

"Tell me anything and I will listen.
Ask me anything and I will answer you."

Old Friends
Freya Manfred