Ten Feet Tall Poem by Teresa Tabo

My husband thinks himself a rather small man.
And, it is true he doesn’t reach six feet.
But, my heart views him differently than he can…
So, looking through my eyes here’s what I see.

His hair is slightly graying ‘round his temples;
Deep lines lead to his blue and gentle eyes;
Yet in them I see years of thought and wisdom;
Hard lessons learned while living out his life.

His hands are rough and calloused from hard work.
Mechanic’s life has left its scars and marks.
But, each time that he takes my hand in his
I feel his love surround my very heart.

His shoulders aren’t as straight as they once were;
Bones shattered in a wreck while in his youth;
But, still they’re strong enough to hold the world…
To shelter me…protect me from untruth.

His hands and knees and back are known to ache
Arthritis racks his joints with daily pain
I watch him rub his hands most every night
Yet there is n’er a time that he complains.

His soft and gentle voice can quickly calm
When I am stopped by doubt or filled with fear.
In love he wraps his strong arms gently ‘round
Or lifts his hand and gently wipes my tears.

He knows just what to say to make me laugh;
While flashing that mischievous boyhood grin.
Or, lead me on with straight-face honest looks
Then laugh because I fell for it again.

There is no doubt that his heart deeply feels;
I’ve seen his eyes fill many times with tears…
For everything from movies to grandkids…
From grief…to joy…to faith and often prayers.

He’s not afraid to fight for something right
Nor get down on his knees and softly pray.
Yet humbly he steps out of public light
Supporting me to teach and lead the way.

On Sunday he’s the first that’s dressed for church;
And, often he will give his kids a call.
Though grown they always love to hear from Dad.
And, little ones love talking to Paw Paw.

As we walk side-by side and hand-in-hand
Our love for each forever we avow.
In faith we stand together in this world.
I can’t imagine life without him now.

Stature does not make a man a man.
My husband sees himself as rather small.
But, I see him a giant among all men…
For in my heart he’s always ten feet tall.

I love you, Allan,
Teri