In the beginning I was without shape or substance, I was alone and desolate in my world. I was in need of acceptance, someone to believe in me. Someone who could make me smile or maybe even make me in my self believe.

Softly words began to form, not demanding nor shouting or filled with scorn, words that were like the sound of silken threads being played on a golden harp, by an angel. Just a friend, the words said, that is all I want to be. What can be the harm after all I am safe here in my world, Night after night the words were spoken to me. I started to trust the words, came to need the pleasure that they gave, looking forward to them at the end of the day.

After time the words began to inquire of this and that, how sincere they seemed. The words spoke of their concern, then of wishing to hear my voice so that they might understand. What harm could this bring, I too wanted to hear the voice that gave the words. I agreed that I would call, after all the words assured me I had nothing to fear.

I heard the voice, so soft and full of concern, I knew that the voice could be trusted with my concerns. As time went by the words and the voice grew as one, I was drawn into a place of laughter and smiles, my heart filled like a flower in bloom. The words and the voice began to plead if only my face they could see, What harm could there be, if I only went to see.

I went willing to see the words, the voice and a face made three. Enchanted person who I met, for a moment made me forget my sadness and my heart to yearn for a freedom I had not known. In a few moments I was changed, filled with longing and desire, I abandoned all I had left behind, What does it matter I said to myself, what harm will it bring just a few hours with some words, a voice and a face and then I will retreat to my safe place.

As I left the words, the voice and the face I also left my soul in that place. That night I looked for the words, they did not come, the voice I heard not and the face was just a memory. I longed for what I thought I had found. No longer content with my world or my retreat so safe, I waited with grief.

At last the words again began to flow, the voice called to say hello, the face I could again see. Already I had a friend who meant so much to me. I threw aside the shackles that had bound me so tight, I lived for this friend day and night. I was content to see this friend whenever I could.

Things somehow began to change, the friend seemed to put distance between us, the face failed to appear, the voice grew silent and the words ceased to be. It is hard for me to admit after all is said and done. My friend so it would seemed was just playing a game. Not really caring after all, just a game where the winner takes all. How sad but true as I have come to believe no harm will be done after all is only a game.

I sit here still looking and hoping that one day my friend will be back, always fearing that another day will go by and yet knowing that it will be the same as all the others. If my friend could somehow just understand, even if it was just a game. I wait for the words to come seeking me, if they should call I would go to them. To share once again all the pleasures of the game, knowing full well that I would lose all that I have, but then again even that is just part of the game. If I hurt someone or perhaps do them wrong then I can always say is just part of the game, and I surely cannot be to blame.