Tribute To My Father

You taught me how a mortal should live And this I value more than what Kings give, Your meek gait from the church into the grave Such long-lasting wisdom and inspiration gave. You read the Scripture under the noontime shade And this taught me lasting lessons that will never fade, That hope is dead that comes not from the Savior above And that the rest men seek in vain until they seek his love. Had you left behind colossal measures of gold Such that all before me unrequested bowed, Vain I would grow and think everyone stunk And treat my fellow men like unwanted junk. But kind heavens loved your darling kid And something greater upon him did, The rare gift of faith the Almighty gave And poured the water and blood that save. When he surveys his surroundings and sees The twinkle of the stars and the dancing of the trees, He thinks of the eternal wealth of hope past death And mocks the cares that come with fleeting breath.