My son is not another me.

He stands alone to find his place.

If he has guts and drive to spare,

his niche in life will wait for him.

 

It’s not for me to say which way

but only to guide if I am sure.

Not sure of what I want for him

but sure his way is straight and true.

 

It is more honest to use tools well.

For after all that’s what I know.

Than to pretend to brilliant be

and fail oneself, who else will care.

 

So find a road that suites your feet

and be not bent from your resolve.

To try to do the best you can,

though oft the going will be rough.

 

And if you stumble, trip or fall,

or take a wrong turn on the way.

Remember that our love for you

is constant and unqualified.

 

When all is past and back we gaze

Aa all the foolish things we’ve done.

Let us at least, with pride and grace,

know we tried our very best.

 

 

David Garlick, Victoria, Fall 1986