Be a Friend

What makes a true friend? Edgar A. Guest answers that question in this famous poem. He reminds us that friendship is not about wealth, popularity, or recognition. It grows through kindness, encouragement, and a willingness to help others. As you read these verses, you may find yourself thinking about the kind of friend you are and the difference even small acts of kindness can make.

You'll be richer in the end than a prince, if you're a friend. Edgar A. Guest

Updated July 16, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.

Be A Friend

Poet: Edgar A. Guest

Be a friend. You don't need money:
Just a disposition sunny;
Just the wish to help another
Get along some way or other;

Just a kindly hand extended
Out to one who's unbefriended;
Just the will to give or lend,
This will make you someone's friend.

Be a friend. You don't need glory.
Friendship is a simple story.
Pass by trifling errors blindly,
Gaze on honest effort kindly,

Cheer the youth who's bravely trying,
Pity him who's sadly sighing;
Just a little labor spend
On the duties of a friend.

Be a friend. The pay is bigger
(Though not written by a figure)
Than is earned by people clever
In what's merely self-endeavor.

You'll have friends instead of neighbors
For the profits of your labors;
You'll be richer in the end
Than a prince, if you're a friend.

Key Reflections In This Poem

Friendship Begins With Kindness
Edgar A. Guest reminds us that friendship does not depend on wealth or status. A kind heart, a helping hand, and a willingness to care for others are often all that is needed to make a lasting difference.
Small Acts Have Great Value
Simple acts of encouragement, patience, and generosity can brighten someone's day. Even a few kind words or a little time spent helping another person can create friendships that last for years.
Look For The Good In Others
The poem encourages us to overlook minor faults and appreciate honest effort. Choosing grace instead of criticism helps build trust, strengthens relationships, and brings out the best in people.
The Riches Of True Friendship
The greatest reward for being a friend is not money or recognition. Genuine friendships bring joy, encouragement, and support that are far more valuable than material success.

Quotes from the poem, Be A Friend

"Be a friend. You don't need money."
Edgar A. Guest

Edgar A. Guest reminds us that friendship is never measured by what we own. A caring heart, a listening ear, and a willingness to help someone through a difficult day are gifts that cost nothing. The best friendships grow through kindness, trust, and time. If you are fortunate enough to have a true friend, treasure that relationship, and look for ways to be that kind of friend to others.

"Be a friend. You don't need glory"
Edgar A. Guest

True friendship is not about receiving praise or recognition. Most acts of kindness happen quietly, often unnoticed by anyone else. A sincere friend offers encouragement because it is the right thing to do, not because they expect anything in return. Those quiet acts of kindness are often remembered the longest.

"You'll be richer in the end than a prince, if you're a friend."
Edgar A. Guest

Edgar A. Guest reminds us that life's greatest riches are not found in money or possessions. Good friends bring comfort during difficult times, celebrate our successes, and make life's journey brighter. True friendships become treasures that no amount of money can replace.

Popular Pages

Friendship grows through kindness, encouragement, and time. These pages offer more poems, quotes, and messages that celebrate the joy of having a true friend.

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Read Just Go And Be A Friend for another reminder that friendship begins when we reach out to others.

Conclusion

Edgar A. Guest reminds us that anyone can choose to be a friend. It does not require money, recognition, or grand gestures. Friendship begins with kindness, grows through encouragement, and becomes stronger when we accept others with patience and understanding. May this poem inspire you to reach out, offer support, and be the kind of friend you would be grateful to have.

More Edgar A. Guest Poems to Inspire