Roots

Today’s writing prompt for Five Minute Friday is Roots.

Today is my mother’s 87th birthday. She won’t remember that it is. Today would have been my parents’ 68th wedding anniversary if dad was here. But, she won’t remember that either. Part of me wants to fall apart. I’ve shed a tear. But, life goes on.

My siblings and our spouses took our parents to Opryland Hotel and to the Grand Ole Opry for their 60th wedding anniversary, 8 years ago. I am so glad we did. We laughed. Acted goofy. Got soaking wet. But, those memories I will cherish as long as I am able.

We made a book to remember that time and I wrote a poem to honor them. I entitled the poem “Firm Foundation.” I believe it also good be called “Roots.” I am thankful for the roots my parents gave us.

“Like a tree planted by streams of water”

a foundation built not to be shaken by storm,

strife, fear, illness or heartache.

Roots buried deep into the soil

to hold us up, to set a course,

to lead us to a higher place.

Nurtured, watered, and cherished

that we might feel and know love,

to have strength even in time of testing.

Our parents, our foundation built upon

our Heavenly Father – built to last

to endure until we all meet face to face.