And then there were 4:

Growing up there were four.
One sits writhing this now.
One moved on to far places; had grand adventures.
One disappeared into the mists; glimpsed occasionally, but unknown.
One stayed near and true, hurting now.

My friends.

I await impatiently the impending visit of our intrepid explorer.

I dream of another glimpse of the "lost one".

I stand here, arms open to the one in pain.

The years have passed us by. Life has taken us each on our own twisting and turning paths. We have fought our demons, together and alone. All of us so very different, but with memories the same. Friendships so valuable to me that at times in my life I would have cheerfully laid down my very life for them all.

John, you gave me strength and courage. You gave me wings.
I didn't always know what to do with those gifts.
Teresa, you gave me grounding. You gave me a sense of right and wrong.
I often went the wrong path, and took you along with me.
Melody, you gave me you. You gave of your wit and charm and family.
I love you for that.

Confidential: Mel, stay strong. You have it in you to start again. You can do it. I believe in you. When it gets hard, I am here. When it gets harder, I have a bottle I am willing to share.