THE SUPPORT OF FRIENDS

If you want to play with me,
It might help if one of us defines what "friendship" means
So that we can both see if we're on the same page.

If you want support from me,
Perhaps we should get clear on how I define "support"......
You might not like the Barkla model.

A lot of people confuse "support" with "agreement",
And unconsciously define a "friend"
As "someone who'll give agreement to your pretences and stuff, as long as you give agreement to theirs".

I'm not that kind of friend.

Don't worry; if that's what you're looking for
You'll find plenty who do fit that bill.

I have a low tolerance for game-playing, pretence and deceit,
And I expect my friends not to tolerate it from me either.

I'm more of a Companion and Coach.
When you're sad, I'll ask you how long you want to wallow in it;
Then when the bell rings, I'll goose your sorry arse
And get you laughing.
When you're angry, I'll make fun of your anger, but not you.
When you're happy, I'm happy.
When you're hurting,
I'll be the first one through the door
To throw my arms around you and tell you --
"Someone's gotta change this!"
And, providing you're fair dinkum about moving on,
I'll be there for you until you're through.

Support and agreement are not always one and the same.
Someone who wants something from you will always give you agreement.
But if you're about to do something stupid,
Another perspective and a Zen-like rap over the knuckles can be the best support you'll ever get.
And if you're being really stupid,
And if I really care,
I may give you a bit of a hard time.
(Just thought I'd warn you).

If you'd rather stay a Victim,
We can shake hands
And say "Goodbye" now.
No hard feelings.....

If you want the sort of friendship
That treats you as intelligent and able,
And not as a dimwit who needs "saving"
I'm your man.