As I was walking along life's journey
I noticed something behind me
It looked like a shadow but there was no sun out
I started to run but something seemed familiar

After taking a closer look
I realized I knew this shape
It was one I am quite familiar with
It was one that given me hope before

When I had a hard road ahead
It always took my hand
And stood by my side
Saying "You can get through this"

At once I had a smile
Thinking here was my perfect chance
To finish my journey
But something was missing

Smile slowly fading from my face
It hit me that this was no old friend
But an illusion instead
Made up of old memories

Smile completely gone by now
I began to turn around and start again
When the shadow called out
"Wait. You do not have to go alone"

I looked at the shape once more
There was no indication it was anything more
Than an illusion from old memories
But I felt something inside

A beacon of hope
Reaching out from my past
Telling me that it was going to be okay
Confused I slowed down to think

All the memories I had of old times
Did not need to sit there alone
Collecting dust and rusting away
Like something I had no use for

I could cherish them instead
And gather strength from those times
That I pulled through with the help
Of a dear friend

Standing up tall
I began to set out on my journey
Though this time with help
From the shadow of an old friend