I looked at his hands so peacefully at rest, <br /> Serenely folded on his quiet breast, <br /> And prayed "Oh Lord, give him a task to do <br /> If you would have him happy there with you-- <br /> A garden or a flower bed to tend, <br /> A fishnet or a small child's hurt to mend. <br /> For those dear hands could never idle be-- <br /> They worked or played--or prayed so faithfully." <br /> <br /> I can see them round the handle of a hoe, <br /> Or in the dirt, making his flowers grow, <br /> Or bouncing a laughing child upon his knee, <br /> Or holding his precious book so tenderly. <br /> <br /> I can feel them--through a fevered night, <br /> Or firmly guiding us on paths of right. <br /> I want him to be happy there with you-- <br /> So give him, Lord, I pray some task to do.<br /><br />Claudine James<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/tribute-to-my-dad-on-father-s-day/
