The Patriarch

Kind and loving

Patient and Wise

I see it all

In Grandpa’s eyes

With joy and peace

Faithful and good

He taught us to live

As we should

By example

And on his knees

He leads the way

To heaven’s streets

Honest and true

Pure and just

He taught us all

To live in trust

He loves his Lord

He loves his wife

He taught his children

The righteous life

He’s touched this world

With outstretched hand

Leading many

To the promised land

We all see him

Through different eyes

But we all agree

He’s very wise

He leads us still

Though we’re apart

For he is simply

Our patriarch

The last few days have been an emotional rollercoaster for me.  While I said goodbye to my grandma, I also had the special privilege of connecting with my family.  I had the opportunity to become acquainted with many of my cousins as adults.  The last time I had seen most of them was twenty-five years ago.  I was a young mother and they were still children.  I enjoyed my conversation with each individually and as a group.

I had time with my aunts and uncles, my parents and my brothers.  And although the time seems too brief, I will treasure each and every memory.

In the midst of the excitement I had the honor of visiting with my grandpa.  At ninety-six, he is wise and ornery, reserved and vivacious, loving and direct.  When I am in his presence I am flooded with the memories of many summers spent with my grandparents.  I am reminded of the many times he fixed me breakfast.  I am conscious of every wise statement he has said.  I am overcome with the love of my grandpa.

And when I sit and observe this family, I see the influence of grandpa on every life.  Whether by blood or marriage we cannot deny that he has touched our lives.  He is our patriarch.

I love you grandpa.

Copyright 2011 Ramblings by Dawn.  All rights reserved.