My father was a well-respected deacon, educator and community leader. In reply to those who now endeavor to deconstruct the beliefs and choices parents made in earlier times, I would testify that my parents, along with many other parents, did the best they could in raising their children in a fast-changing and turbulent era.

Father

He taught me
more about integrity
by living true to his beliefs
every single day of his life.

He taught me
more about forgiveness
by loving me unconditionally
even in my most unworthy hours.

He taught me
more about courage
by setting heavenly goals and
reaching for them with all his earthly might.

He taught me
more about life
by laughing often and being
unafraid to surrender at times to tears.

Oh father, your earliest prayers follow me still
and your steadfast, unfailing love,
the finest earthly treasure I possess,
is manifest in the meager human heart
of a child forever and always in your loving debt.

Next poem: My Grandmother’s Garden

Author: Jerry Dan Deutschendorf
from: Red Earth Whisperings
Part III: Family and Friends