"I Can Tell" (Revised)

I can tell by that look my friend
that we need to talk.
So come take my hand
and let's go for a walk.
See, I'm not like the others -
I won't shy away
Because I want to hear
what you have to say.

Your child has died
and you need to be heard
But they don't want to hear
a single word.
They say your child's with God
so be strong
They say all the "right things"
that somehow seem wrong.

I'll walk in your shoes
for more than a mile
I'll wait while you cry
and be glad if you smile.
I won't criticize you
or judge you or scorn
I'll just stay and listen
'til night turns to morn.

Yes the journey is hard
and unbearably long
and I know you think
you're not quite that strong.
So just take my hand
"cause I've got time to spare
and I know how it hurts, friend,
for I have been there.

See I owe a debt
you can help me repay
for not long ago,
I was helped the same way.
And I stumbled and fell
through a world so unreal.
So believe me when I say
I know how you feel.

I don't look for praise
or financial gain
And I'm sure not the kind
who gets joy out of pain.
I'm just a strong shoulder
who'll be here til the end
I'll be your
Compassionate Friend...