I recited this poem at my second daughter's, Vilja's (2mo), baby dedication on last Sunday.
For Vilja
So my lips speak in a foreign tongue out of courtesy
With the intention inscribed in a fatherly tendency
The words are for all those in presence of your dedication
But the message is a seed for nurturing a human foundation
My heart an unfinished puzzle with now your piece found
Gladly I stand here again at pillars of mankind profound
While pieces are yet to come and some will still be lost
Knowing with these blessings I am luckier than the most
In sadness we will count and collect your tears
When the dark days come we'll wipe away the fears
Together with your mother whose signet you carry
Please be young for long as many forget to tarry
In happiness and success participating in the joy
Your life renews also mine and that journey I enjoy
In challenges there to help you stand on your feet
And should we depart let our paths once again meet
I will that you be siblings of hand-in-hand union
Have each support the other as a beloved companion
Let neither tower be covered by the shadow of another
Thicker the blood bond tightly knit you two together
Let your choices be guided by a more capable hand
Your life composing a chant of a glorifying stand
And where my power and wisdom end on this earth
The destiny you forge yet be enchanted by mirth
With this I pour my strength unto you to guide thee
A father equipping his daughters for an unknown sea
As we do not know what tomorrow brings in its wake
Today we gladly company you in this dear daybreak
So I pray - - be happy and care-free
My silvery - - beautiful, willow tree
(TDL, August 2016)
