Date: 3/7/2025
When a friend calls to me from the road
And slows his horse to a meaningful walk.
I don’t stand still and look around
On all the hills I haven’t hoed.
And shout from where I am
“What is it?”
No, not as there is time to talk.
I thrust my hoe in the mellow ground
Blade end up and five feet tall, and plod:
I go up to the stone wall
For a friendly visit.
I was giving thought to my many friendships just recently, and went looking for a poem that addressed the importance of friendship in our lives. Naturally, I selected my favorite author Robert Frost, and came across his poem, “A Time to Talk.” After reading through it several times, I began to reflect on whether or not the busyness of my life kept me from connecting with others, especially my good friends. I believe Frost is telling us that there are moments when we need to make time to connect with others. He is saying that the work we are doing is less important than the human connections we have with our friends.
One begins to understand that when one of our friends makes an effort to connect, it should be a moment we cherish; Frost contrasts the work of life with the importance of friendship suggesting that true fulfillment comes from the interpersonal moments we share with others, rather than the time we seemed to be consumed by tasks and responsibilities.
After reading this poem, don’t you get the feeling that Frost is telling all of us that friendships are precious, and deserving of our attention and time, no matter how busy we seem to be. Taking time to be with friends is not just an act of courtesy, but a meaningful and vital part of life. While I always felt relationships were crucial, I have adopted the view that relationships and human connections are essential, and we should all make time to assure ourselves that our friendships should be a priority in our lives.
As with all the Frost poems that I have recommended, please take some time to read through it several times to see what it means to you, and how it may reflect on the importance of friendships in your life. If you have time, share your thoughts with me and your reflection regarding this beautiful, but simple poem.