A Friend's Greeting

Celebrate true friendship with heartfelt reflections and Edgar A. Guest's timeless poem.

This poem, by Edgar Guest, is one that is great to share with friends. Although this friend's greeting refers to Christmas, the first three verses can be shared at any time of the year to express appreciation for a friend. This Edgar A. Guest poem is one that has stood the test of time and is still being shared with others to this day. It contains great verses to remind us all about the true worth of those we call friends!

There is always something special about a friend. Many people, unfortunately, experience something much less in friendship than others. Some people's friends seem to be no more than a group of people that they know as acquaintances. These acquaintances may be around you during work, or during outings throughout the year. They may be seemingly good friends when everything in your life is going smoothly. However, are these the same people who will be at your side when troubles bombard you? In most cases, the answer is no. Fair weather friends may disappear when difficulties arise, while true friends remain close and offer encouragement. Their loyalty during challenging times helps us recognize the difference between an acquaintance and a genuine friend.

Those who have experienced true friendship understand that its value cannot be measured or easily repaid. Genuine friends give their time, encouragement, and support without expecting anything in return. Their kindness is freely offered because they care. True friendship is freely given through kindness, loyalty, and support, as you will also find expressed in these Famous Friendship Poems.

I'd like to be the sort of friend that you have been to me.

Updated July 17, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.

A Friend's Greeting

Poet: Edgar A. Guest

I'd like to be the sort of friend that you have been to me;
I'd like to be the help that you've been always glad to be;
I'd like to mean as much to you each minute of the day
As you have meant, old friend of mine, to me along the way.

I'd like to do the big things and the splendid things for you,
To brush the gray from out your skies and leave them only blue;
I'd like to say the kindly things that I so oft have heard,
And feel that I could rouse your soul the way that mine you've stirred.

I'd like to give you back the joy that you have given me,
Yet that were wishing you a need I hope will never be;
I'd like to make you feel as rich as I, who travel on
Undaunted in the darkest hours with you to lean upon.

I'm wishing at this Christmas time that I could but repay
A portion of the gladness that you've strewn along my way;
And could I have one wish this year, this only would it be:
I'd like to be the sort of friend that you have been to me.

Key Reflections In This Poem

True Friendship Is Measured By Kindness
A true friend is someone who encourages, supports, and stands beside us through both joyful and difficult times. Their kindness leaves a lasting impact that is never forgotten.
Gratitude Strengthens Friendships
Taking time to appreciate a loyal friend reminds us not to take meaningful relationships for granted. A simple expression of thanks can strengthen the bond you share.
Give Back The Good You Receive
The poem reminds us that when someone has been a blessing in our lives, we should strive to offer that same encouragement, compassion, and support to others.
Friendship Brings Strength And Hope
Knowing there is someone to lean on during life's challenges gives us courage to keep moving forward. True friends help make even the darkest days a little brighter.

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Conclusion

Edgar A. Guest's poem, "A Friend's Greeting," reminds us to appreciate those who encourage us, stand beside us, and bring joy into our lives. May these words inspire us to express our gratitude and to offer others the same kindness, loyalty, and support we have received.

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