Here's a picture of the entire immdiate family as it was about three years ago. The occasion was mother's 85th birthday. Several new additions have occured since then. My dad died about forty five years ago. I'm over fourteen years older now than he was when he passed away, and I think a lot about the positive influence both my parents had/have on this family. One parent was taken away early, but he was around long enough to establish his role. Now, in modern terms there were others in the village who played an important part too, but I'm stressing the importance of parents today. My mother is still active and influential. I consider this as I prepare to go to my church and teach a lesson from the Bible on "Rejection", a topic affecting many today who were not as fortunate as we were. I wrote some poems about my parents several years ago and I hope you enjoy them.
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
Almost 40 years ago, he died.
I still miss him everyday.
Quiet country boy – Brought up hard.
Learned early how to make his way.
Strong from work and tan from sun.
Dark hair and winning smile.
I never saw him waiver, change,
in good times or in trial.
He loved hard work, family.
Served his country. Spoke the truth.
Taught with bible and example.
Twigs need bending in their youth.
Outdoors was his favorite place.
Hunting, fishing, sun, fresh air.
He taught me manly lessons
when there were no women there.
Grave illness struck, he fought hard,
working right up to the end.
He crossed the bar so peacefully
to meet his Lord, and friend.
The world won’t know how great he was.
He had no wealth or fame.
Because he would not compromise
the value of his name.
I’m older now than he was
when he left this mortal frame.
But hope, that like my dad I leave
the treasure of a name.
THE MYSTERY OF THE FLOWER
She was the Belle of Jeff Davis County.
Stunning to the beholder.
Long haired brunette
with more curves than a mountain highway.
She was raised in the traditions of the South.
Never leave the house without your make-up.
Always dress to the nines.
Her wide brimmed hats shadowed her face
to add to the mystery.
She learned to be strong and silent in adversity.
A player in a man’s world.
Influential, but not obtrusive.
Beautiful, but powerful.
She remains the same today.
Never making an appearance until her face is fixed.
Her hair shows no gray.
Graceful and fragrant like the Magnolia’s blossom.
But make no mistake,
her resolve is steel.
