Packing up the dreams God planted

In the fertile soil of you

Can’t believe the hopes He’s granted

Means a chapter in your life is through

(Refrain)

But we’ll keep you close as always

It won’t even seem you’ve gone

‘Cause our hearts in big and small ways

Will keep the love that keeps us strong

(Chorus)

And friends are friends forever if the Lord’s of the Lord of them

And a friend will not say never ‘cause the welcome will not end

Though it’s hard to let you go,

In the Father’s hands we know

That a lifetime’s not too long to leave us friends

With the faith and love God’s given

Springing from the hope we know

We will pray the joy you’ll live in

Is the strength that now you show

(Refrain)

But we’ll keep you close as always

It won’t even seem you’ve gone

‘Cause our hearts in big and small ways

Will keep the love that keeps us strong

(Chorus)

And friends are friends forever if the Lord’s of the Lord of them

And a friend will not say never ‘cause the welcome will not end

Though it’s hard to let you go,

In the Father’s hands we know

That a lifetime’s not too long to leave us friends

***