The Vow

I've known him all my life And still do now he's gone Leaving behind his kids and wife Memories that live on I watched him from the younger side Through the struggles and the strife Never knowing they were there As he never once broke his stride I strive to be like him In stature to be found Holding tight to his beliefs Because he made a vow Never dwelt on could have been's Or if only I had done's Taking what was thrown at him Be it treasure or be it mud He knew he served a purpose And his purpose was his word Always being first us Anything less was unheard Gone too many years Now for me to count But through the laughter, joy, and tears I'm glad he kept his vow Daily thankful that is something He passed along to me A promise made a promise kept To my own family As I do battle in the thick and thin That is often thrown my way Remembering my time with him And the purpose he displayed Although it's not always easy I'm sure that too he often found But like the man before me I also made a vow