My Only Son Poem by Frederick Nellist

Today is your sixteenth birthday
a yearly step along life's way.
My love for you keeping the pace
always my angel with a dirty face.

Never a feeling you do not belong
or grow old singing a sad song.
Demanding courage don't compromise
the misconception, folly to be wise.

Don't evade issues, become involved
problems faced are almost solved.
Your own salvation you must rehearse
you must learn it chapter and verse.

Your trek through life long or short
success awaits but cannot be bought.
An uncertain journey has barely begun
battles fought, some lost some won.

Don't measure your life only by wealth
or consider this journey by yourself.
It helps to keep a smile on your face
I pray your adventure is a merry chase.