In each farewell, I pledge to keep the pain at bay,

But with each turn, another friend slips away.

I caution others: I'm not always easy to love,

Yet they promise to stay, but I know they won’t.

True ache lies in mourning someone still alive,

Each best friend, past or present, holds a special place.

Be it a lesson learned or a cherished memory,

I don't regret a single moment; they've impacted me, each a role in my saving grace.

To the firefighter whose heart was shattered,

I longed to witness your healing, to see you matter.

Our friendship grew, and I grew to care in another way,

Honesty and pressure were never my intention to break.

It's challenging to be so close to someone, like we were, it's true,

Our conversations were endless, a bond that grew.

A friend I loved and accepted, just as you were,

But we couldn't make it work, our connection blurred.

To my curly-haired high school bestie, so perfect,

You brought out my best, wiped away every tear, every bit of respect I had for you, you earned it.

Your blue eyes and infectious laugh I adored,

With our shared secrets, we felt forevermore.

But without a reason, you left me without a word,

Two souls, once close, now strangers, unheard.

Among all the losses, your departure hit me the hardest,

Still wondering why we drifted, feeling utterly disregarded.

Not all encounters are destined for a lasting stay,

Yet sometimes, I wish they were, to lessen all the pain.

I wouldn’t take back the love I've given, though it's bruised,

But I yearn for the time I've lost, often feeling used.

For I loved with all my heart, giving it away,

To the wrong individuals who couldn't ever stay.

Failures in friendship, I won’t let it define me another day.

For those who truly love you won’t leave,

And actually mean what they say.