In the garden of existence, where friendships bloom,
A single choice can lead to joy or doom,
Choose with caution the hands you hold,
For some may glimmer, yet hide the cold.
A stranger\'s laugh may ring so sweet,
But know them well before you meet,
For in the dark, concealed from view,
A twisted heart may lurk and brew.
A friend today might be a foe tomorrow,
Choosing poorly can bring lifelong sorrow,
Wise and slow in picking peers,
Saves you heartache, saves you tears.
But let not fear be your guide,
For there are those in whom you can confide,
The trick lies in discerning grace,
In eyes and words and the smiling face.
Your whole life can be thrown askew,
By the company you keep, the bonds you strew,
So yes, be very selective, wise and true,
The friends you choose define the you.
© Susie Stiles-Wolf