How Many Friends

The old man turned to me and asked,
"How many friends have you?"
Why 10 or 20 friends have I,
And named off just a few ~
<@>
He rose quite slow with effort
And sadly shook his head
"A lucky child you are
To have so many friends," he said,
<@>
But think of what you're saying
There is so much you do not know
A friend is just not someone
To whom you say, "Hello"
<@>
A friends a tender shoulder
On which to softly cry
A well to pour your troubles down
And raise your spirits high
<@>
A friend is a hand to pull you up
From darkness and despair...
When all your other "so called" friends
Have helped to put you there
<@>
A true friend is an ally
Who can't be moved or bought
A voice to keep your name alive
When others have forgot
<@>
But most of all a friend is a heart
A strong and sturdy wall
For from the hearts of friends
There comes the greatest love of all!!!
<@>
So think of what I've spoken
For every word is true
And answer once again my child
How many friends have you??
<@>
And then he stood and faced me
Awaiting my reply
Softly I answered
"If lucky ... one have "I"