You were always there no matter what – standing by me. Feet planted firmly on the ground. Strong, ever present, tender and kind. Full of the joy of being and doing. Your gift of giving was total, And your totality touched me And the hearts and lives of many. Nothing was too much, No one was let down Or ever left short by you – no half measures. Secure within your arms My life unfolded. You painted my past, Pictured my future, And through all the years, In laughter and love Joy and pain, We shared the gift of a lifetime.