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The man I married almost 60 years ago has always been an amazing dad. His children, three of them are now beyond the age of 50 now and have become wonderful adults. He has led a very interesting life, filled with adventure, millions of stories and produced a body of art that spans a lifetime. He has always placed his trust in God, the Father of all. He made sure his children new they could turn to their heavenly Father in all situations. Now he is nearing the last chapter of his life. As I look at this photograph of him from a few years back, this is how will be remembered – carrying a paint box, wearing paint spattered blue jeans and a cowboy hat – full of energy, smiles and a quick wit. God will be waiting with open arms when Paul reaches heaven and will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

The following is a poem I wrote about a year ago, when we first started this challenging walk. Our Heavenly Father is honored here as the perfect dad, who will guide us through life and greet us when we go home to him.

A LIGHT IN THE DARKEST HOUR BY KATHY BOECHER©

A tender shepherd walked this earth with love within his touch,
His words could calm the troubled sheep, His hands led them through much.
He chased away the predators, He brought them safely home.
He often searched for many hours for one who liked to roam.
He nurtured and He led them to pastures lush and green,
He sometimes pushed and prodded, through perils yet unseen.
His rod and staff protected – His love would see them through,
For they were His possession – He did what He must do.
He found the purest water to quench their endless thirst,
A clean and living water that always put them first.
This great and perfect shepherd still leads us every day.
His life He gave – became the sheep – to take our sins away.
No price can compensate Him. He dwells among us still.
He leads our souls to heaven. He guides us with His will.