A Purpose To Understand
The happiest times in my life came late
After military service and my college years
Mid-thirties, I would not hesitate to say,
I finally moved beyond many crippling fears
Determining my own destiny, my path in life,
Away from the dysfunctional family I knew
Free, at last, from years filled with strife,
Long after my mama was gone; father, too,
I have vivid memories of crying copious tears
Because of my alcoholic father’s sadistic abuse
For which, of course, there was no excuse,
I nourished relationships with friendly peers.
An early failed marriage must be mentioned,
Two wonderful children before it fell apart
As a father, I was extremely well-intentioned
But it’s hard to maintain with a broken heart.
By my forties, I achieved success in my career
Rebuilt with firm foundations, married again,
And my life shifted into, I’d say, high gear
I found purpose in life in a meaningful domain.
The last half of life has been happy, for sure,
Thirty-five years with my dear wife was grand
It took a long time for me to become mature
Realizing it all has a purpose to understand,
I learned lots with Deborah holding my hand.
Written August 9, 2022
Copyright © L Milton Hankins | Year Posted 2022
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