The Path to Fatherhood

Our lives, good or bad, have been shaped by past events. I have been blessed with loving parents, great siblings and a wonderful son. The day my parents chose to be one, they unselfishly committed to share their endless love  with their children. They sacrificed their needs and wants for ours. They taught us the value of giving without expecting anything in return.

Several years ago, my father requested I write a father’s day poem for him to share with his church. He wanted the poem to be generic enough to apply to all fathers. (Oh and he wanted it in 3 weeks) I struggled to write the poem. Every line I wrote kept coming back to my father and the lessons he taught me that shaped my life. Finally, I finished the poem that I felt all fathers have in common. Today I want to share with you the original poem I wrote for my dad. It was very easy for me to write. I just reflected on my childhood and the lessons he taught me. I hope you enjoy my childhood journey.

A Leader of  Leaders

The night was dark and the rain poured down cold, Reminiscing of the past I realized I had grown old. I let time fly by as I was too busy to observe, but you were always there for me and never too busy to give me encouraging words.

Putting another log on the fire I noticed the flames as they sparked,They reminded me of how you lead the family, the flames scattered but never grew apart.

You have a natural way that makes people see you as a leader and for that they listen, you capture their hearts with inspiration and your smile makes them glisten.

When I was just a young boy you told me make my own footsteps in the snow, I wanted to follow exactly in your steps but you sternly looked at me and said, “NO!” “Make your own footsteps in life that is why I gave you your own name. Never follow anyone’s footsteps, never be the same.”

These are words you spoke and with them you have shown me the way, I have created my own path in life and live by the philosophy you say. I thought you only made me feel that special way inside, but others have been caught by your dominating spirit and your impressionable pride.

You are a leader of leaders and your wisdom of words inspires, you are like a success magnet that motivates people to have desire.

Miracles happen every day and to see them makes me glad, but the most spectacular miracle God has ever shared was to give you to me as my Dad.

I love you Poppa!