I sit down to write this with a lot of trepidation. It will probably be one of the hardest blogs I’ve written, but I can’t let the opportunity to honor someone so dear to me who has meant so much to me pass by.

My grandpa passed away earlier this year. His death wasn’t a surprise (his health had been failing for a long time), but there is still a continual sense of loss. Grandpa Don was a writer. A great writer. He wrote cowboy poetry and his words touched people with their humor and honesty. I remember going to a convention where he was being honored and watching people as he presented his most popular poems. You could sense their admiration, feel their appreciation, and almost see their powerful connection to Grandpa Don’s words.

Since his death, I can’t write without first thinking of him. I only hope that the words I write have a portion of the power his had. That my stories can bring a small particle of that joy his brought. That I can connect with people in some small way. Grandpa Don’s way was great. The ability, faith, and desire he left in me to tell a story means the world to me. I know he’s in Heaven smiling down on me. I hope he knows I recognize his influence, that he’s amazing, and I love him.

This poem came to me right after he passed, but it wasn’t until now that I’ve been ready to put it into words….

It Takes Great Strength

It takes great strength to work from ‘morn to night, never stopping ‘til the job’s done right.

It takes great strength to build integrity, a name people can trust with all they see.

It takes great strength to take a wife, to find and make a person the love of your life.

It takes great strength to admit you’re wrong, to change your life and move on.

It takes great strength to love with all your heart, filling others with your soulful part.

It takes great strength to raise a family right, to keep them knit together nice and tight.

It takes great strength to write a heartfelt poem, leaving no part of yourself unknown.

It takes great strength to age with grace, leaving wisdom and experience to take its place.

It takes great strength to continually give your life to the Lord, leaving no question of your Heavenly reward.

It takes great strength to move on, to live a life full of memories of those who are gone…

because to carry on the legacy of Grandpa Don,

will take our greatest strength.

I love you Grandpa! Thanks for leaving me with so many memories, some talent, and tons of love!