My True Friends

When I am hurt and need some balm,

They assuage my pain,

and keep me calm.

When time stands still

and I am bored,

With books indeed my joys I scored.

As long-lost friends, who meet, embrace,

My vintage ones bestow their grace.

Into their deep recesses I plunge,

Seeking answers in myriad tongues.

Sometimes they thrill, at times they drag,

Of acquired knowledge I often brag.

They talk of times beyond my realm,

Into those tr

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acks, my thoughts I helm.

My wealth I count by books alone,

Love for little else ever borne.

I care not, what's wrapped as a gift,

For, only books, my spirits lift.

The good, the bad, the ugly ones,

All bring solace by the ton.

When all is lost and end seems near,

Let books surround me keeping cheer.

My eyes be spared I beseech Thee,

To etch each of them in memory.

On my bier, when I lay still,

My lord, let me have had my fill.