Allie Sings Her Father

There was a parade walking by

on a rainy day passing by the chapel’s door

and those who knew could not say - why

the man of faith had lost his roar

 

The photographs were arranged in age lines

telling a story yet, explaining nothing

that made sense nor left signs;

the pastor spoke of keeping faith... or  something

 

The house was never more empty than now

Nor was it ever completely satisfied

For frames hold photos together - somehow

A memoriam says potter’s work unfinished –  died

 

Someone might have noted his eye was lost

To some distant place where ideas were captive

And immense needs were taken at all cost

Weariness divesting will and strength inactive

 

Now as Allie sings her father away

The church people sit alongside the homeless

Paying tribute to the Joe today

That his tender mercies will profess