This Man's Hands

This man's hands joined with his wife's
and they made a life together.

This man's hands served our country
and lead him with integrity.

They carved a home
out of a small piece of paradise.

They helped him choose an industrious vocation
that built a foundation for the region.

This man's hands accepted his new son
then taught him to follow his dream.

They turned over a garden
and harvested his land by hunting and fishing.

This man's hands held his first daughter
and encouraged her natural intelligence.

They crafted his home into a haven
by taking the gifts of nature and creating beauty in utility.

This man's hands received his second daughter
and gave her what she needed to flourish.

They lifted a glass with friends
while roasting pig and corn.

This man's hands cared for his aging parents
by sacrificing the way good sons do.

They remained compassionate
as they stroked the family dogs.

This man's hands held his grandchildren
and taught them to bait a hook.

They supported his smiling chin
and he laughed with them as they grew.

This man's hands were never idle
even as his legs began to tire.

They improved on his original creations
and were ever ready to offer hospitality and advice.

This man's hands celebrated the arrival of
his great grandson.

They appreciated the frailty of new life
and the strength in it's potential.

They touched our lives
through many thoughtful gestures.

This man's hands now rely on us
to continue his good work.


for William Glenn Kinzer