Dad

I am older now than you ever were.

You will always be for me the young strong man who looked the world straight in the eye.

Not because you were combative, simply because you were happily truthful.

You had your share of troubles. As old BB King sang, you paid your dues.

Like many sons I never quote you to other people. Never elucidate the lessons you taught me.

Because you taught me to learn for myself.

Taught me to stare my troubles in the eye and pay my dues.

Dad.