This was written for my nephew when he became engaged to a lovely young woman. I first met her as his date at a Halloween party. He came as John Smith and she was Pocahontas.


Memories Of Matt

My memories of you begin
with thin hands exploring,
and belly kisses,
as your Grandmother,
with waning strength,
awaited your arrival.

....and then I met a diaper dragging scamp,
who's sisters' anxious guiding hands
presented the ways
and wonders of their world.

From there, mailed photos
kept you focused
in my distant frames.
I watched you grow
and become a carbon
of the brother of my youth,
and smiled with memories.

Still later,
you joined your cousin in rebellion.
We, the recently proper,
seethed with disapproval
as you both
explored your horizons
and breached your boundaries.

You continued to mature.
I caught brief glimpses of those years
at family gatherings and celebrations,
...til on an autumn evening,
through an Atco doorway
you strolled
with an Indian Princes by your side.
Your armor reflected the smiles
her introductions called from you,
and Pocahontas dimpled in pleasure.

Today I view with pride,
A man who's destiny
is determined by his love.
I celebrate that love,
that inspiring commitment,
that humbling optimism,
and wish you both
a future as shining as your dreams.

B. V. Dahlen

By Marcia on Thursday, August 28, 2003 - 02:52 pm:

OMG Bea, you almost gave me a heart attack. I was thinking something happened to Matthew!!!!!
OK, now I'll go back and read the poem. Phew!!