Hand in Hand

To my beloved Grandson:Once upon a timeMy hand was just as yours.Life was simple. Needs were few.Every day was something new.As time went by awareness cameOf love and hate, of pride and shameOf black and white and shades of gray.And sometimes just to survive the dayWas a victory on which I builtThe foundations of the dreamsThat became a lifetime.Once upon a timeYour father's hand was just like yours.I loved him just as he loves you.And tried to be the best parent I could.Sometimes I succeeded.Sometimes I failed.But everything your dad and I didWe did Hand in Hand.He didn't come with an operating manual.Neither do you.In the end, I know he'll do the best that he can do.Watching him hold you now.Brings back memories.Of every joy, every painEvery fear, each loss, each gain.And one day, if he is as lucky as I was.Your first born will place his newborn handAround his grandfather's finger.And my wonderful son will rememberHow the two of you shared this great adventureHand in Hand.