I’m glad Father’s Day falls in June.
When air smells of roses.
Magnolias, linden blossoms.
When trees are lush with foliage.
When animals, insects have abundant food.
When frogs bellow, turtles sun.
When cardinals, robins, sparrows whistle in chorus.
Daylight creeps upon us early.
Stretches late into the evening.
Offering more time to observe the world in sun.
What a gift to fathers!
Living in every realm.
Birds and bunnies.
Bees and butterflies.
Men who have children.
Men who don’t, but mentor.
Husbands, brothers, uncles.
Fathers, grandfathers, living.
Fathers, grandfathers, gone.
Maybe even boys without thoughts yet of fatherhood.
But who value fathers.
Who value men.
Of good character.
Integrity.
Responsibility.
Warmth.
Models for children everywhere.
Maybe Father’s Day is a time to contemplate.
How can men find their best selves?
How can women help?
We’re on this earth together.
We have to get along.
Dignity and respect.
Basic marching song.
Enjoy the acclamation.
Humbly reach inside.
Wear the badge of man
with probity and pride.
With reverence, with awe,
hold a petal in your hand.
Instant transportation
to genuine father land.
Lynn Benjamin
June 18, 2023
