One for Paul

the words i hear most often
when i pray for him
are so clear
and so perfect
"he's my favorite one"
one with a child's heart
but a man's depth
one with kindness
and compassion
and gentleness
one who fights hard
one who keeps going
one has survived the valley
one who has stood on the mountain
one who walks beside his friends
one who relentlessly seeks
one who gives when there's nothing left
and the Father's heart
is so very pleased
with all that he is
and all he will be
all that was ordained
before a hair grew on his head
his path is straight
his destiny assured
the Love that won his heart
will hold him fast
this favorite one