I honor the father

Fatherhood

every child is precious

and the rearing of that child

deserves the finest of instinct, decision, care,

I am in awe of the mother

within whom the life begins

and who regularly allows the best to be possible,

there should be awe when watching

a young mother swaddle the child with love,

I can be in awe of the father

for whom the rearing is more of choice

and the way forward seemingly more pathless,

the father who sees the child,

who knows the child,

who is there for the child,

can help the way open clear

for the precious within the child

to break free of the shells that can hold him and her back,

at the heart of it all, the child makes his and her own way,

now, though, I honor the father,

whose love and effort can support the child

in becoming the best possible person

inherent within what choice and circumstance allow.

My sons, you are great fathers!

Thank you for who you are.

by Henry H. Walker

June 14, ‘15