A friend is someone . . . 

Who sticks with me no matter what.
Who shares the burden of my heart and life.
Who shares the burdens of your own heart and life with me.
Who tells me the truth - even when I don't want to hear it ...
because a real friend only desires my best.
Who laughs with me.
Who cries with me.
Who cheers me on in the race of life.
Who covers my backside in battle ... while I cover yours.
Who continually points me to Jesus.
Who is not afraid to touch me.
Who lavishes love on me but is restrained with your flattering words.
Who desires to take off the masks and walk in intimacy.
Who covers me with respect and keeps secrets well.
Who takes over for me when trauma leaves me helpless.
Who gets me and my vision and does not try to quench it.
Who helps me polish the pearls of my heart and never tramples upon them.
Who walks side by side through life, facing all the hurdles with me ... holding my hand when I die.
Who is not ashamed of my past ... and not ashamed to glorify God with me.
Who is proud to be seen with me.
Who comes to the rescue when rescue is required.
Who chooses to cover my nakedness rather than exploit it.
Who is 'there' with whatever I need ... quiet understanding;
joy; tears; understanding; faith ...
Who is 'there' like a warm fire on a cold winter's night.