Among the great and glorious gifts
Our heavenly Father sends
Is a gift of understanding
That we find in loving friends,
For in this world of trouble
That is filled with anxious care
Everybody needs a friend
With whom they're free to share
The little secret heartaches
That lay heavy on their mind,
Not just a mere acquaintance
But someone who's "just our kind"—
For, somehow, in the generous hearts
Of loving, faithful friends
The good God in His charity
And wisdom always sends
A sense of understanding
And power of perception
And mixes these fine qualities
With kindness and affection
So when we need some sympathy
Or a friendly hand to touch,
Or an ear that listens tenderly
And speaks words that mean so much,
We seek our true and trusted friend
In knowledge that we'll find
A heart that's sympathetic
And an understanding mind . . .
And often just without a word
There seems to be a union
Of thoughts and kindred feelings
For God gives true friends communion.
