A Man to Remember
by Angela Paul
There is a man that I remember, that I haven’t seen in years
He lived in the same home for more than fifty years
Where he raised his children and loved his wife,
Where he grew his own garden and made himself a life.
I remember our visits and the way that he looked
I remember his smell, I remember his touch,
The warmth of his cheek, the scratching of his whiskers
I remember his chair, how proudly he sat in it.
There is a man that I remember that I haven’t seen in years
And although his heart just recently stopped,
His mind has been failing for years.
While loved one after loved one showered him with care
They couldn’t do a thing but watch in despair,
New visions of nursing homes, elevators and such
No more home-grown tomatoes sprung from his touch
No more talks of politics, hunting or fish
No more familiar smiles, no more stars on which to wish.
He was a simple man, proud and honest.
He led a good life, one with honor.
He has earned his rest, let his hands be still
And know that he is in heaven, amongst the angels
He feels no pain, for heaven knows no such thing
There’s far more for him there, than there could ever be here
Picture him outside, perhaps at the lake
Dipping in his line or bringing home the catch of the day.
Fishing pole in one hand, bucket in the other
Strolling down the road, heading home for supper
The door swinging open, where he finds his wife
His thick white hair blowing in the cool sweet breeze,
Looking down on his children with such happiness and ease.
He knows what you did for him and he is forever grateful
You will never find a man prouder, than he is of his children.