Grace, age 14

Always there, ever present in our lives
The one who congratulates us with high fives
Supportive with constructive criticism,
But never giver of undue cynicism.
Willing to talk or lend an ear,
The one who cheers while others jeer.
Sharing, teaching, and learning too,
One who likes you just for you
Not for clothes, hair, or style,
Always willing to go the extra mile.
The one who tries to understand and care
And bring you up from the depths of despair.
Through good and bad, always by your side,
The one who from you has nothing to hide.
Though miles may set two people apart
Those miles are nothing when it comes to the heart.
Loyal, trusty, and ever true,
This is what a friend is to you.