I’m finally taking Dad to see the world,
He’s been before, but not this far,
Not with his boy. He’s so excited!
Trees and houses, cows and stone
pass us by, sitting side-by-side in the train.
He’s with his boy. He’s been waiting for this day.
Quiet, but I remember his thoughts.
I know him better than myself.
He’s so happy to be here!
England, Germany, Italy and Greece,
Holland, Spain, Austria and France.
He’s waited so long!
We cry together on the Norman graves,
Two generations lost, two present.
Father and son, together.
I planted your Oak today, Dad.
I know you will grow big and strong,
Just as before. Like your father, like his son.
Earth from the Old World, mixed with you,
will foster this seed, and make you new.
I can see your smile in the leaves!
And your grandchildren will know you,
When they climb the branches
That grow from your ashes.