My father was a gentle man

until alcohol took over his life.

Not only did he lose his children,

but he lost a loving and devoted wife.

He walked away from the special gifts

that God so graciously gave.

He never saw his children grow up

or watch as a few got saved.

When I was younger I used to wonder

did he ever think about me?

And then one day I realized

that I was just one little leaf on his family tree.

When he left to follow his demons,

I wondered did he ever think twice?

But the devil only wants you to go

he doesn’t ever tell you the price.

For my father will never know

the things in my life he’s missed.

My marriage, my love

or the feel of a grandchild’s kiss.

He never saw his grandchildren

and all the joy they can bring.

Just sitting around watching a ball game

or listening to their little voices sing.

It’s the simple things day in – day out

you and I take for granted everyday,

These are the gifts my father will never see

because from the Lord he strayed.

What was his purpose on earth

I wondered just last night,

Did Jesus show me the wrong road through my dad

so that I would choose the right?

We all will come to a crossroad in life

when we are not sure which path to take.

Take it from me-choose the HOLY one

not just for you – but for your family’s sake.

Kim Brown 1997

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