If Only! Poem by Denis Martindale

If we but study IF again, will we see something new?
Beyond those decades, way back when, and what folks chose to do?
The way they sought to rise above the common man as such,
And yet remain so full of love they sought to stay in touch.
The way that discipline was all, despite when rules proved hard.
Amazing grace! God's miracle! Quite joyful to regard.
The way that good luck stays a while, then off it goes in time,
To bring a man a happy smile, as if things were sublime.
The way that bad luck brings him down, and brings his hopes to nought,
And yet he nods, despite his frown, and seeks more noble thought.
The way that folks unite as one, enjoying life once more,
With evening parties full of fun, regardless, peace or war.
The way that courage turns the tide, rebuilding on what's left,
When faith renews, new hopes abide, no more to feel bereft.
The way that wisdom thinks of things, like what would Father say?
Yet who knows what the future brings? No wonder we should pray.
The way that time can heal our cares, that's wondrous to behold,
And how it deals with Man's affairs, that's worth much more than gold.
For wealth can grow, just like a tree, until the lightning strikes,
So be the best a man can be, not acting as he likes.
The way ahead stays lost from sight, just as the morning sun,
So think ahead for future's bright, that's how each battle's won.
That's what the poem's all about, it blesses one and all,
Faith overcomes the darkest doubt, just like a miracle.
It sees beyond the tragic day, it sees beyond the tears,
It sees beyond the times we stray, as we survive the years.
Mankind was made to scan the skies, to map the world as well,
To plan again for Paradise, for Heaven and not Hell.
To live one's life with all one's might, humility on show.
That's why a Father cared to write, to share what Fathers know,
To overcome the setbacks shown, is that too much to ask?
Yet each has friends. We're not alone. As one, we face the task.
And should friends fail, we should forgive, and call them friends again.
With that thought, Denis Martindale, it's time, lay down your pen.


Denis Martindale. September 2020.


This IF ONLY poem is about the famous poem IF
and the special sentiments of a Father to a Son...