Birthday Epitaph Poem by John Weber

I sat on your big
shoulders, a bite-sized
        sequel, yet never your
        equal in compassion or
patience. You helped me
reach the sun-ripened
apples at the apex

while showing me
masculinity in balance:
        verve guiding steadfast
        nerve to harness resolve,
smiling with confidence
despite perilous risks
menacing futures

so deftly planned.
On this day, I craft an
        homage praising your
        barrage of blessed hope;
behind your every deed,
lessons of grace and
humor triumphed.