Not as a Stranger

by John Herlihy

Odd that we treat strangers as if friends,

Freedom pours forth with limitless ends.

Readiness without fear of a cruel taunt,
Intimacy without any ghosts that haunt.

Strangers receptive to other’s demands,

Not listening just to make reprimands.

They usually listen out of pure concern,

A budding friend without much to earn.

A telling of tales to pour forth in a gush,

A stranger never does leave in a rush.

Willing to stay to their heart’s content,

Until they learn what the other meant.

The stranger turned friend takes leave,

Hoping a tapestry of friendship to weave.

Not as a stranger will you forever be,

A stranger as friend between me and thee.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Sunday 19 October 2025