…I search
for a telephone number that I am
sure has long been
deactivated, and

I write to a stranger.

Who was once a friend.

All the time hoping what they say is
true
that

true friendship never really dies and

real friends pick up effortlessly where they

left off
almost like
nothing had happened in

the days… or months

…or years since
the last sentence
Pick up like

they had only just paused in the
middle
of their conversation to
order a second cup of
coffee and

my heart sings when
this stranger lights up my screen

dear, dear forgiving friend
big smile, bigger heart

life’s joys and

struggles are still

bountiful and
how lovely it is to
once again share them

with you.
Welcome back. Please

stay a while.

Happy Birthday, TB!