People need people
and friends need friends
And we all need love
for a full life depends
Not on vast riches
or great acclaim,
Not on success or
on worldly fame,
But just in knowing
that someone cares
And holds us close
in their thoughts and prayers--
For only the knowledge
that we're understood
Makes everyday living
feel Wonderfully good,
And we rob ourselves
of life's greatest need
When we "lock up our hearts"
and fail to heed
The outstretched hand
reaching to find
A kindred spirit
whose heart and mind
Are lonely and longing
to somehow share
Our joys and sorrows
and to make us aware
That life's completeness...
and richness depends
On the things we share
with our loved ones and friends.

Helen Steiner Rice