The Counselor

There once was a boy, a Fin through and through; 

He grew up on a farm with lots of things to do-

He grew chickens, he caught fish, he ran all around,

He did well in school so to college he was bound.

He studied and studied, and one day he would teach- 

And counsel young hearts about the goals they can reach.

Soon he met his Carol, the song to his melody,

And they set off for Chelan, merried quite merrily.

Sooned they moved Westside, with Cindy in tow-

Followed by Lauri, Hiedi, and twins just for show;

Then Jill and then Joel, so with nine their complete, 

But not without horses, chickens, and dogs- all with love he would treat.

The Fin counseled, he taught, and he coached kids to run,

At home he fathered, mentored more, and went camping for fun. 

They saw mountains, they say valleys, beauty meets nine.

They faced hardships and hiking, but never quit the great climb.

"You can do more than you think you can," he would say-

So up steep hills and through mud, they ran through the fray.

At school and at home he urged tired souls to run on,

So they ran through nighttime and shadow, they ran to the dawn.

He taught compassion to others, and tried to stand in their shoes-

Show character and kindness if you win or if you lose.

And he didn't just preach words to live by, he lived them in his life.

He ran by people's sides, in good times and in strife.

Children and students became grandkids over time-

He school presence dwindled, but not his bloodline. 

He spent lots of time with his family, in invested in them-

And when he spent time with anyone he made them feel like a gem.

He trusted in Jesus, and leaned on him for strength-

He chose to love God, so he loved at great length. 

The truth of the gospel the Fin shared through his actions-

He lived out God's word through each interaction.

He built a strong legacy, not a soul can deny-

His students, runners, and family to this can testify.

His empathy, character, and humility have touched many hearts-

The tapestry of his life is a wondrous work of art.