I have a list of folks I know...
All written in a book,
And every now and then...
I go and take a look.

That is when I realize
These names . . . they are a part,
Not of the book they're written in...
But taken from the heart.

For each Name stands for someone...
Who has crossed my path sometime
And in that meeting they have become...
The reason and the rhyme.

Although it sounds fantastic...
For me to make this claim,
I really am composed...
Of each remembered name.

Although you're not aware...
Of any special link,
Just knowing you, has shaped my life...
More than you could think.

So please don't think my greeting...
Just a mere routine,
Your name was not...
Forgotten in between.

For when I send a greeting...
That is addressed to you,
It is because you're on that list...
Of folks I'm indebted to.

So whether I have known you...
For many days of few,
In some ways you have a part...
In shaping things I do.

I am but a total...
Of many folks I've met,
You are a friend I would prefer...
Never to forget.

Thank you for being my friend!