Mom and Dad

For my folks

Apart, some pairs make no sense,

But when they’re combined they are genius.

 

He was a pool of bubbling tar,

She was a thousand galvanized nails,

Their love fanned out like brand new shingles,

And they put a decent roof over our lives.

 

His voice was a beer-soaked cigarette,

Hers was a thoughtful prayer,

Their beliefs bridged the human spectrum,

We watched the construction and learned.

 

He worked harder than the tools he maneuvered,

She changed lives with precious deeds,

An ox and a hummingbird formed a team,

We were their spring flowers and brick loads.

 

 Now I see beauty in churches and barrooms,

I spin no harsh judgments of my human thread,

She is my scripture; he is my hammer,

And I’m building my own understanding.

Author's Note

I love my parents.

Reviews

[Luna Tique Fringe]

I love how you've written this...fully heartfelt without cloying sweetness. There is no doubt they would recognize themselves in your words and feel the depth of your love and gratitude. I may have shed a tear (shhh!)

I think barroom should be 2 words?? or maybe hypenated?? i was lazy and didn't look it up though.

[Tiana]

So wonderfully written tribute to your parents ... I really enjoyed it ...