Portrait of a Lady

In recognition of the graduation on May 4th of my one and only niece, Madison Teague, from Azusa Pacific University.

PORTRAIT OF A LADY

 

Of the movie of her life

I’ve watched all too few frames

Have retained but moments, events and dates,

And hardly any names

 

What lives in this old uncle’s mind

Were her life but one short day

Only a few score seconds find�"

The rest has blown away!

 

A baby in a pumpkin patch

Once nearly dropped (but spared!)

At five, a game of “Fancy hats”

“Unka Fa’Down” truly cared!

 

         Despite those sacred moments missed,

Those days we failed to grasp,

No “bo-bos” bandaged, no “ouchies” kissed:

Yet in my heart I’d clasp

 

This babe, this child, this woman

Who today before me stands

Poised on the brink of journeys

To remote and unknown lands

 

Her Guides upon these future paths

Her Lord and Character will be;

‘tween Mind and Heart and family’s Love�"

No limits can she see!

 

So Madison, this day please know

Wherever on this Earth you land

Your Mark, your Grams, the rest of us

All hold  your Spirit’s hand!

 

Mark Teague April 29, 2013

Reviews

[Allen Smuckler]

You know what Mark...You is really good...
I love reading your down home, heartfelt writes...I really get a taste of who you are and from whence you come. This is really a beautiful, touching moment Mark and a wonderful tribute to your niece on her (and your) special day. Love exuded from each word and memory...
well done brother
allen

[Mark]

Thank you, my friend. Did you read the "Unka Fa'Down" explanation at Tammie's review? I suppose I need to put that into an Author's Note...

[Allen Smuckler]

I did and must admit I laughed out loud...funny story.. glad everyone was ok thanks to Unka and his quick thinking and "save the child at all cost" reaction. Another tale with a happy ending... and one that will long remain a family story that will continue to grow to epic proportions.

[TL Boehm]

ah how lovely. What a gift for her. I am reminded of a couple of my uncles - though not close - I have such fond memories of them. Loved "unka fa down..." that got me. Well penned.

[Mark]

The story behind "unka Fa' Down was in a restaurant parking lot when she was less than a year, I had asked to hold her, and went to lean back against the car's bumper...Unbeknownst to me, the valet had already removed the car! I hit my back, and the baby went as high as my arms were l9ong!