Today marks the one year anniversary of my grandfather's death. Do you even call it an anniversary? I guess... it's a day to celebrate his life. Thinking back to this time last year, my mother summarized his life very well with a poem she wrote and read at his funeral. I thought it would be appropriate to share it today.
A Tribute to My Dear Father
Who is my father?
He is so many things.
It's hard to describe the love that he brings.
As a child... a protector of all that you fear,
With a strong gentle touch,
Ever watchful, ever near.
As you grow, he continues to guide and protect.
You know in your heart, he will never neglect,
Your slightest of needs, your hopes, your regrets...
His roles multiply the older you get.
A teacher, a counselor... He's guided us all
By the example he sets - he won't let us fall.
He'll allow us to stumble, but he's always there,
To pick up the pieces... to encourage... to care.
He set high expectations for himself and for us...
He's productive...He's a servant... a man we all trust.
We follow his lead. He's amazing to all...
He's the rock of our family...
He'll always stand tall.
Successful? Oh yes, in so many ways.
By the examples that he set day after day...
By the ways that he honored his father and mother...
By the roles he assumed as a kind, loving brother...
By the love and devotion he showed to our mother...
From the day they first met, there would be no other.
By the friends that he made and held dearly in heart,
A best buddy to many right from the start.
By the way that he fathered and the depth of his love,
Dad was truly a treasure sent from Heaven above.
A biological father to only three,
A father figure to more than my brothers and me.
A husband, a father, a mentor, a friend...
The roles of my father will never end.
I'm sure as we gather to celebrate his life,
He's amazed by the number of friends by his side.
Remember him as humble, keep the memories alive.
Please remember my father. He's one of a kind.
We take comfort in knowing he's nurturing still...
His infant son, David, who has been waiting until -
The glorious day when God called Dad back home.
From this day forward, they will never walk alone.
Father God, as you welcome my Dad to your kingdom,
I know you will use his gifts and his wisdom.
For you made him by hand, then shared him with us.
We lift him to You, Lord. It's in You that we trust.
~Denise Allen~
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