For my son Josiah on the occasion of his graduation from high school, May 29, 2021
Excitement
Some days bring Excitement
Victory Adventure Success
They cheer your name with eagerness
Stage spotlights and encore bows
First dates and wedding vows
A baby or six, your dream job begins
And days become years and boys become men
Disappointment
Some days bring Disappointment
Failure Loss Pain
They beat you down with disdain
Failing grades and bad reviews
Broken promises and tragic news
A pandemic, a pink slip, a friendship ends
And days become years and boys become men
Fulfillment
Some days bring Fulfillment
Completion Satisfaction Graduation
They pat you on the back with admiration
Legos assembled and courses fulfilled
Relationships strengthened and alliances built
A diploma, a raise, the death of a sin
And days become years and boys become men
Enlightenment
Some days bring Enlightenment
Understanding Wisdom Inspiration
They knock on your door with desperation
Labored study and prayerful reading
Eternal perspective and Spirit leading
A calling, timely counsel, abundant life begins
And days become years and boys become men
And the world is blessed when boys become men
And God is pleased when boys become men.
