It is my pleasure, as a son, to commend the work of my father for your enjoyment and encouragement. Not all sons would consider such an act to be a pleasure. Perhaps in some perfunctory manner other sons might be moved to write words of honor for their fathers. However, this is not the case for me, as my own true love for my father is my impetus.
My father has put a lot of time and effort into this collection of poetry. However, it is not the time and effort alone that should cause one to read the pieces. No, it is the product of the time and effort: the content of the pieces themselves. When I was given the opportunity to read early versions of many of the works within the collection, I was deeply challenged and humbled. I say this especially with regard to the inspirational/Christian works. These specific works caused me to look at my own personal relationship with Christ Jesus and assess the depth and breadth of that relationship. I came away feeling a greater thirsting and hunger for more of God’s presence and preeminence in my life. I tend to think that any work that can, in the positive sense, stir your heart to move closer to God in spirit and truth must have a mark of His presence upon it. To that end, I commend this collection to anyone desiring “just a closer walk with thee.” While not all the pieces focus on the spiritual, all pieces come from the heart of a man who has experienced and continues to experience a spiritual renewal in his soul. For all readers, including myself, I hope these works, as expressed through my father’s heart and hands, will lead us all to our own “secret hideaways” for daily renewal. If it is the case that you don’t have a “hideaway” for yourself, I think there is enough content within the book to help you find your way there.
Dad, I love you. You are forever my hero and inspiration. As I’ve said before, if I can grow and live to be half the man you are, I will consider my life well spent and successful. Continue to pursue Christ, laying hold to Him even as He holds you.