TO MY GRANDSON, IN BIRTHDAY

“There are fathers who do not love their children; there is no grandfather who does not adore his grandson.” - Victor Hugo.

Ayo, two years ago today you were born
Thereby making me your Grandpa
Ecstatic, I raced upstairs, downstairs and back up again
-being home alone - seeking whom to share the joy!

In a sense, it’s true a grandchild is the reward one gets
For all one did right in one’s life
The consequences of those things having been paid for

Josh, when years ago your Mama’s infant hands I held
I knew no doubt the Universe loved me
But when now your infant hand I clasp
I sing for joy the Universe is mine

You animate our hearts with laughter
While I tickle your little fancy
You assuage our ways with confidence
As your lips part in childlike smile
And freshen our quantum joy
With your happy chirpy laughter

Child of my child, as you slowly but surely grow into a man
Keepsake these words at doorstep of your heart:
To live, to love, to be happy at all times
For life gives no guarantee that morrow will be happy

When time with me shall be ripe
Let this be keepsake
To read and to smile
Knowing that Grandpa’s words ring true
As you show your child’s child
These words couched by your once-upon-a-time Grandpa

As you traverse these planes your purpose to fulfill
May the eye of Heaven shine upon your brow, warmly
May the breath of the Universe blow behind you, gently
May the rains shower your shoulders, ever so lightly
And may the earth surrender itself to your feet, gracefully

And, as you celebrate your TWO
May God cocoon you, today and for all time, in the palm of His Hands

With love from me,

Your Grandpa