The Making Of Friends

As you read this poem by Edgar A. Guest, you will be reminded that making friends is one of life's greatest blessings. Through these thoughtful verses, Guest shows how kindness, caring, and friendship bring meaning and happiness to our lives. Without friends, the world would indeed be a lonely place, a truth Edgar A. Guest captures beautifully in these verses. Enjoy this inspiring famous poem, and discover more heartfelt friendship poems to share with those who make your life richer.

And the joy of this world, when you've summed it all up, is found in the making of friends.

Updated July 23, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.

The Making Of Friends

If nobody smiled and nobody cheered and nobody helped us along,
If each, every minute looked after himself and good things all went to the strong,
If nobody cared just a little for you, and nobody thought about me,
And we stood all alone to the battle of life, what a dreary old world it would be!

If there were no such a thing as a flag in the sky as a symbol of comradeship here,
If we lived as the animals live in the woods, with nothing held sacred or dear,
And selfishness ruled us from birth to the end, and never a neighbor had we,
And never we gave to another in need, what a dreary old world it would be!

Oh, if we were rich as the richest on earth and strong as the strongest that lives,
Yet never we knew the delight and the charm of the smile which the other man gives,
If kindness were never a part of ourselves, though we owned all the land we could see,
And friendship meant nothing at all to us here, what a dreary old world it would be!

Life is sweet just because of the friends we have made and the things which in common we share;
We want to live on not because of ourselves, but because of the people who care;
It's giving and doing for somebody else- on that all life's splendor depends,
And the joy of this world, when you've summed it all up, is found in the making of friends.

Key Reflections In This Poem

  • Friendship Makes Life Richer

    Edgar A. Guest reminds us that life's greatest blessings are not found in wealth or possessions, but in the friends who encourage, support, and share life's journey with us. True friendship brings joy that money can never buy.

  • Kindness Creates Strong Friendships

    A smile, a helping hand, and a caring heart are simple acts that build lasting friendships. Small expressions of kindness can brighten someone's day and strengthen the bonds between people.

  • Life Is Better When We Care For Others

    The poem encourages us to look beyond ourselves. When we take time to help, encourage, and give to others, we create a happier world for everyone, including ourselves.

  • Selfishness Leads To Loneliness

    Guest contrasts friendship with selfishness, showing that a life focused only on personal gain becomes empty and lonely. Caring for others gives life meaning and purpose.

  • Giving Is One Of Life's Greatest Joys

    The poem concludes with a timeless truth. Much of life's happiness comes from giving, sharing, and making friends. The relationships we build often become our greatest treasures.


Conclusion

Edgar A. Guest leaves us with a simple but lasting reminder that the happiest life is one shared with others. Friendships are built through kindness, encouragement, and caring for those around us. May these thoughtful verses inspire you to appreciate the friends who have touched your life and encourage you to be the kind of friend who brings joy, hope, and support to others.