~~~ Ode to Father ~~~

Born seventh of ten in order,
But perfection he was not.
God spared him nonethless
For greater things that
Only now we see.

When in his shadow we stood,
How glad he made our hearts.
His smile did not come oft
But oh, when thus it did
Our world was filled with light.

His strength we all could see,
His purpose sure and strong.
Principle and truth he shared
To us who dared to disobey;
With cunning he disarmed.

Now feeble he has become:
The cruelty of time and ways.
The eyes have dimmed - the glory faded,
Which makes us sad,
But the spirit is alive!