Parental Love

They’re just there, your Mum and Dad,
Together, or apart, they’re just there.
They raise you, as they know best,
Trying their hardest, they bring you up.

It’s easy to have this vague sense
Of their being, their presence.
To not appreciate what you have,
To not realise the wonder of parental love.

As a child, I thought they were strict
As an adolescent, I thought they were wrong
As a young adult, I knew I was right
As a thirtysomething I see their grace.

Helped by their love, their patience,
I am a child of God again.
Even though at times I have hurt them,
Christ-like they welcomed me back.

Their selflessness and love is awesome
Their love for each other is powerful
Their love for God is unfailing
Their outpouring of love is endless

On this their anniversary day,
I want to raise thanks to God
For that unfailing parental love,
For my own Mum and Dad whom I adore.