for Bruce H. Edwards

if I were to give my definition
of an honest man,
you come to mind...

not because of any great thing
you do,
but because you do not fail to
speak from your heart

simply, yet stated with a force
so powerfully sincere,
no one can doubt your veracity
even people whose eyes fail to "see"
know there is no doubt that
they've been dealt with
"honestly"

If I were to give my definition
of a loving father
you come to mind

not because there are no other
loving fathers
but because you exemplify
the caring and nurturing that
ofttimes is attributed to mothers

and I marvel at the beautiful
relationship-bond you enjoy
with your daughter
"stage daddy,"  coach,
cheering squad, guidance counselor
lovingly wearing every hat

you come to mind whenever I think of that

If I were to give my definition of a good friend,
you come to mind
not because you have so many friends,

but because your quiet eyes reflect a soul
in need of one that's true
who doesn't necessarily think like you

your tendency toward caution
protects your tender heart
but when you allow someone inside,
the miracles have no end

these are a few things that come to mind
when I think of you
my friend