Today my son turned forty-six
a number
whose meaning is beyond
my powers of computation
we spoke briefly on the phone
he was at work
but took the time to share
a few reflections
there was a sweetness
in his voice, a quality
of listening that touched me
once again
one of his many gifts
is his ability
to listen thoughtfully
without intruding
a skill I've never learned
despite my years

Of all the ways my life
has brought me joy
and blessings beyond
any I'd imagined
myself worthy of
this lovely man
good husband, father
best of sons
has blessed me
with the most
precious of gifts
a father could hope for
today my cup is spilling over
with the sweetest wine I know