Yes, I know there are many books on how to make friendships last. But when you reach a certain age, you recall friendships that came and passed. I doubt there's a course in Friendship, but there is an age-old recipe. It lists all the ingredients necessary for lasting til eternity. Pretend you're making apple pie; just add in truth and love, and sprinkle that with tenderness. Add joy to those above. It needs a cup of laughter; stir gently with good sense. And don't forget the honestly, that truly is immense. Now bake the friendship gently, (it takes a lifetime until it's done.) We must always hold it close to us, but let in fresh air and sun. For friendship requires nourishing and mends along the way. And understanding most of all for thoughtless words we might say. A friend will stand beside us when life becomes too much. And brighten days that become long with just their loving touch. They are our special wizard; a cache of brightest sun. A gift that's filled with memories to be opened one by one.