Before I knew your story, Before I knew your heart, I watched you with your little ones And loved you from the start. A father's quiet strength and love Was written in your smile. I thought, "These little ones are blessed." I sat and watched awhile. You never had a lot to say But your strength could fill the room Somehow in your quiet way Acceptance found its bloom. One day when voices gathered And criticism filled the air, You simply said, "Don't be a part of that." And left your answer there. Some hearts don't need A thousand words To let another know... A quiet kindness, Steady hands, Can help a friendship grow. I always felt you welcomed me, Though little things were said. The strongest bridges sometimes stand On trust that's built instead. I hoped the shop would be 'our' place, Like couponing was with Jess- Like real estate deals with Aaron Growing closer through the process. Watching dreams come true together-- Your dad would build beside you, I'd cheer each step you made... Building more than just a workshop— Building a lifetime, we prayed. Not every dream is measured By lumber, steel, or stone... Sometimes it's simply family Building something of their own. Your children always treated me With kindness and respect. The title "Grandma" was never mine, But I never loved them less. I treasured every conversation, Each answer, laugh, and smile... Believing that, in time, perhaps, We'd walk another mile. Then came a day of conflict No one wanted to face. I thought you stood beside your brother, Helping him protect his place. And maybe that was all it was— I still don't fully know. But one quiet email Brought shock I didn't show. Not anger at first... Only disbelief. I whispered through the shock, "Who is Erick?" Because the man I'd come to know Seemed suddenly so far away. Some things can't be mended With lumber, nails, or stone. Some broken places ask for hands Greater than our own. So I'll remember who you were Long before the pain... The father I admired, The man whose quiet strength remained. And if one day The Master Carpenter Chooses to restore What we could never mend... There will still be A place for you At the workbench.
