Why are you friends? they queried recently.
Responding we go back so many years,
I said although we’re vastly different, we
have managed mutual respect. Some tears
we’ve shed in anger – we sustained a breach
at least two times, but found a pathway back.
And both of us have had some friendships leach
away by death and relocation’s track.

It’s like I can’t afford to turn away.
Except I asked myself: what would I lose
without her in my life? I have to say
there’s boredom, hurt, and no things that amuse.
It’s decades since I found her any fun.
I think it’s time to recognize I’m done.