Roots and wings

There are two lasting bequests we can give our children-roots and wings. – Hodding Carter

My wide-eyed child I regale

With a folk song and a tale

From a bygone century

Set in an unfamiliar country

In the land that I venerate,

For which my love shall not abate

I strive to make him aware

Of his roots, the culture we share

So he knows despite branching far

The ground where his roots are…

**

Together my son and I explore

The world with its wonders galore

We read about nations, planets and stars

So that when time comes, he can fly far

Follow the path his dreams carve out

Soar high, without a sliver of doubt

Spread his wings as far as he can

Realize his full potential as a man.

**

With roots to cling to, wings to set him free

A fine human being my child shall be

When wings help his ambition take flight

Roots will help him keep reality in sight,

Remind him that no matter where he may roam

Unconditional love awaits him at home.