I feel pride
When I see the uniform
My son so tall
And strong
Quiet
Yet focused
With a sharp mind
Commanding respect
With just his look
Beneath is steel
And determination
Will power unyielding
Save to its own
Intelligence
Judgment
Discernment
Leadership
Not learned from books
Nor in lecture halls
But from inner growth
That happens
So mysteriously
In ways unknown
But of this
One thing is certain:
Grow the man
And the rest will follow
As surely as spring
Follows the season of snow