Packing up the dreams God planted  In the fertile soil of you  I can't believe the hopes He's granted  Means a chapter in your life is through    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    And friends are friends forever  If the Lord's 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 live as friends    With the faith and love God's given  Springing from the hope we know  We will pray the joy you live in  Is the strength that now you show    But we'll keep you close (really really close!)  As alsways (promise?)  It won't even seem you've gone  (Do we really gotta go?)  'Cause our hearts in big and small ways  Will keep the love that keeps us strong  (I'm feeling better already!)    [2x:]  And friends are friends forever  If the Lord's the lord of them  And 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 live as friends    Oh, a lifetime's not too long  To live as friends    (Speaking:)  Bob:  It's been great out here with you Larry, even though neither of us have showered for five days. I'm glad we're going home now.    Larry:  Yeah, I miss my mattress, and my boxspring.    these lyrics are submitted by 1st Flutist