I cannot sing much, and I don’t do it well,
But here I must sing, in attempting to tell
To all here assembled the love I now feel
For making their friendliness being so real.
The human equation will often mislead,
A friendliness shown that is based on the need;
The atmosphere then will be less than sincere,
And somehow you feel it is lacking in cheer.
But here I feel wanted, no need to pretend;
Where I can be me, with no safeguards to wend.
However, it dawns on me—deeply aware,
That I must contribute, have something to share.
In any assembly like this one, I see,
That friendliness must be returned openly.
I realize that this is the best way to live—
So now I must question what good can I give?
For friend or acquaintance, regardless of name,
Acceptance without any personal claim.
But, to be included in groups such as this
Is simply a gathering one should not miss!
© Richard Williams