My Dad

My Dad—

strong and steady 

he was always ready 

to sit down with his girls

to comb out the knots in their curls.

The touch of his

carpenter-calloused hands

always gentle.

It was his presence 

much more than his words

that spoke of love

to these three girls.

And taught them 

the important lessons in life;

of commitment and hard work 

of honor to his wife. 

On showing up in the lives of others;

friends, neighbors, strangers,

his younger sisters and brother.

Even stray dogs

would find a home with this man.

And when those calloused hands

formed into the shape of prayer,

his heart followed and 

faith blossomed.

The earthly vessel

weakens

with the passing of time,

oh, but the Firm Foundation lives on.

The loving hands 

of the Father

hold my father near,

His strong embrace

removing thoughts of fear.

Filled with Hope and 

each new day’s Mercy

he runs his race

faithful to the end—

my Dad. 💕