An Ode to the Good Men in my Life

A reflection on the good men in my life…

My grandfather, Big Daddy:

His work was that of a logger, this reminded me of Christ as a carpenter. He used his hands masterfully to create and build just about anything with wood.

He found so much joy in making his grandchildren laugh, in letting us simply be children.

He was an excellent provider as well as an avid gardener, hence fed us well from the earth.

He was a good good man to my granny, to his children and grandkids, and to everyone who knew him.

I love you and miss you!

~ Jeff Davis Maple

My Father-in-law, Paul:

Papa, you were truly one of kind.

You taught us to be firm, and to handle our business.

Your laugh continues to resonate in our hearts.

Your legacy of strength and resolve lives on in us.

Thank you for loving us in your own way…

~ Paul J. Stewart, Sr.

My father, Melvin:

I’m thankful to get to know you and that you are now a part of my life.

I’ve come to know your heart for me.

I’m grateful that I don’t have to wonder if you have accepted and experienced the love of Christ.

I honor you for embracing our relationship as it is, and continues to become.

You are loved, thank you for loving me back.

~ Melvin Washington

My brother, Sid:

I appreciate your kindness,

I appreciate your example of Christ in the earth,

I appreciate every gift you’ve given me,

I appreciate your service,

I appreciate how you have faithfully provided,

I so appreciate your friendship, and

I appreciate your humor and also your humility.

I so appreciate you Sid, you are a good – good man.

You are loved,

God Bless You!

~ Sid Anthony Taylor, Sr.

My husband, Gerald:

I’m not sure I can find just words to express all that my husband is and means to me.

You were gifted to me as a young lady of 18. I’d say at just the time it was meant to be.

Unbeknownst to you at the time, I fondly remember speaking ‘us’ into existence and God granted it.

You’ve always been a gentleman, which was the attraction for me. And in time, I came to know just how kind and how good your heart is.

Your devotion to your family is unwavering, thank you.

I love experiencing God with you, and serving humanity alongside you.

Your relationship with our daughter is so endearing to witness; she adores and respects you immensely.

Life with you is good; every struggle has been bearable as we have each other.

As our journey continues, I’m blessed in knowing and eternally grateful that our love for each other is authentic and God breathed…

I love you.

~ Gerald Shelton Stewart

I appreciate the impact that each of you have made and continue to make in my life and the lives of others. Cheers to your legacy!

Rita Stewart, Legacy Builder