The Greatest Man I've Known

Six feet tall, twinkling eyes of hazel;
Easy smile and laughter lines aplenty;
Savior, teacher, friend and mentor;
Woodsman, saint and fisherman too;
Guardian, gardener, lovingly adored;
Fix It man, carpenter and grandfather too.

Strict lines to shelter from harm;
Protector from evil, both within and without.
Your word is your bond, his greatest lesson;
Respected by all, feared by a few.
Willpower of iron, so strong were you.
Taught life's lessons with seeming ease.

How hard was your road?
Promises given and kept for all time.
Eating your anger to keep peace at home.
What price did you pay for that home?
A home not a castle, not a peaceful retreat.
Why should I have expected less?

One promise still binds us, That death bed promise.
Given to me not your daughter, your child,
A promise still binds us as long as needed.
That death bed promise, 22 years ago
Did you know how hard it would be?

Still a promise given is one that must be kept
My word is my bond, I expect no less of myself.
You taught me too well with your quiet brand of courage.
You taught me honor, honesty and love.
What greater tribute can I give to a man?

Laura R
09-16-02