August 1987

To Al Bennink and Judy Jonkind

(two very good friends)

beside you in church

I see your hands join

and smile

as your friend

I rejoice with you

as in days to come

your lives will join

I rejoice also

that the God, our God

remains your guide

a man once said

“True friends

are a treasure beyond price.”

I agree with him

especially, it is true

of those who love the Lord

friendship achieves a greater depth

when based in the love of God

within all good things will grow

as they have for you

whose joy is the Lord

as they have for me

to have friends such as you