[Me, the young parent, struggling to figure out balance 

between “grace and truth”- December 2001]

The Parent

Too much kindness? 

Too much wrath? 

How best to lead you 

on your path? 

Young whiner, find your way.

Small treasure, hear me pray 

for you, 

for me, 

for strength, 

so we see 

the good in the struggle, 

the light on the path, 

the balance 

of kindness

and love 

and life’s wrath.

For you and for good, 

small treasure, I struggle.