Fathers Day

Sermons We See

~Edgar Guest~

I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day;

I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.

The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear,

Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear;

And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds,

For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you'll let me see it done;

I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.

And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true,

But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do;

For I might misunderstand you and the high advise you give,

But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.

When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind

Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me

To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be.

And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today

Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.

One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold;

One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told.

Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear,

For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear.

Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say,

I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.

This morning, before the sun was fully up, Emery was out working in the garden. Yes, its Fathers day and he should be treated to a special breakfast or a day of leisure, but he is not that kind of man. He just came in the house and I asked him if he would like to have his day be something different than hard work and he smiled his tender smile and said, "to me, every day is Fathers Day, and every day is wonderful and special." The poem above is just what our children could say about their dad. He is a living sermon. His words and deeds always match. There are no secret side of him that they would have to hide from the world. His kindness and patience the most perfect example for children to have. He doesn't ever embarrass his children or make them feel small. His praise for his children is wise and full of love. He is in our eyes, a perfect Dad.

Happy Fathers Day Emery !