Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
PHILIPPIANS 4:8
I’m the one who views in secret, the way you truly are. The way you really live your life, not looking from afar. I see a Father full of truth, much different from the rest. Nobleness is sent forth from you, as you brave humbleness. Respectable, your earthly ways, too right to be ignored. Character that I desire, through our family cord. Purity emerges, deriving from your heart. A cleanliness that Christ doth see, it’s like a work of art. Lovely are your gentle ways, quite tender is your care. Captivating, your love for mom, a treasure we both share. You’re a man to be admired, esteemed, and adored. Prized above a million men, for this I praise the Lord. The most excellent example, of Christ’s sacrificial love. The way you lay down your life, for the ones you love. A Father who’s so loving, so gentle, and so kind. I’m thankful that our God saw fit, to make you, Father mine.
my inspiration
I wrote this poem for my dad, John Kennedy, for Father’s Day 2022. I remember contemplating the line, “Nobleness is sent forth from you, as you brave humbleness.” I went back and forth on the word brave. How and when would you need to brave humbleness? Yet, I felt it was right.
It wasn’t until we left Kansas University Medical Center on July 19, 2022 – with my dad’s diagnosis of ALS – the line in this poem made total sense. It was going to take a tremendous amount of bravery to face the inevitable humbleness that ALS would bring. My dad is the bravest person I know.
This poem was featured in an art collaboration with Lioncub Creative
