A hard fought battle you have won
This graduation day;
We fill with pride to know you still
Stand steadfast on the way.
We know you often lost your poise
And longed to sound retreat,
Until some inner strength took charge
And saved you from defeat.
Life's many battles yet to come
May test you to the core;
For every one you lose, there will
Be victories in store.
Stand firm for what you know is right,
Believe you can't be beat;
If doubts prevail then search for help,
But never sound retreat.
Just persevere and strive to step
In cadence with life's beat;
With fear and fight and faith, my son,
You'll never sound retreat-
You'll never sound retreat.
My eldest son struggled all through
high school and was now facing a stint
in the military, during the Vietnam War
1968
Joseph, you continue to amaze, with your beautiful way with words.
Oh, what a beautiful and encouraging tribute to your son. I'm glad he took your advice. I'm glad he made it. 10
Well constructed expressing deep personal family struggles and battles fought through life. Great poem.
A great poem Joseph, and greatest respect for your son and all others involved.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
Your son won his battle to graduate, how proud you must have been, but so much worry for you and so many in the Vietnam war. a wonderful poem