My Friend

Bewildered, alone and
Afraid

Troubles and joys tight
Restrained

A stranger came showing
The right path

Gently, kindly and
All unknowing

The stranger led through
The maze

Until the riddle
Was answered

And a poignant awareness
Came

Gone all the bitterness
And pain

Leaving only the shining
Joy for life

Now, begin again, free
From all regret

Led by a stranger whose
beauty and grace

Is exceeded only by her
Wisdom and charm

A stranger, my guide,
My friend

c. 1958