I’m From – Reflections at 50

I’m from Ron and Coral down Armadale way

and as a youngster in bed I wouldn’t stay.

I’m from Dampier with little brother Dave

together we had many a close shave.

I’m from wearing an army uniform

getting dressed in the right gear would become my norm.

I’m from sweet still sis Debra, in September ‘73

Oh how our lives have been enriched though you we did not see.

I’m from Dampier, to Perth, with little bro Matt

poor little guy in the middle seat he sat.

I’m from footy in winter and summer for cricket

gee didn’t I love to take a wicket!

I’m from cracking farts to advanced in mathematics

Yes, years 7 & 8 were filled with all kinds of dramatics.

I’m from Countdown and KISS, Pink Floyd and U2

I’ve always loved music especially when I’m blue.

I’m from Karratha, as good a place to grow

with mates, whose names, all ended in ‘Y’ or ‘O’.

I’m from squats, bench presses, and chins

bodybuilding and good times and other kinds of sins.

I’m from the Falcons footy and Salt cricket club fun

that goal on Taylor, 50 metres on the run!

I’m from pumps and diesels and iron ore screens

but work now involves the sharing of coffee beans.

I’m from the nineties and having three gorgeous girls

those dancing concerts and wigs with curls.

I’m from Amy and Zoe and Rhi

what blessings in their lives I’ve had the privilege to see.

I’m from separation, divorce and devastation

but thankfully God engineered my restoration.

I’m from God, who reset my course

a passion to serve others became my life force.

I’m from Sarah, from the family of Brown

solid as a rock, the jewel in my crown.

I’m from writing to unravel enigmas

a passion to advocate against all kinds of stigmas.

I’m from Ethan, our little dear

right now, he’s one I like to be near.

I’m from Nathanael, the preciousness of loss

But I’ve learned that life comes from death at the cross.

So... I’m from son and grandson to husband to father

and there isn’t another life that I would rather.

Now to you all, who have been important to me

love is reciprocal, I know you’ll agree.

Thank you.