unfolding valentines

never cared much for valentine's day.

come on -- it's just another way

to push long-stemmed roses,

pink bears with red toeses

and chocolates arrayed in a heart-shaped tray.

thirty-five years ago today,

a girl and a guy i know made their way

from the aisle at a church

to the end of their search

for a home of their own, a place to stay.

twenty-nine years later -- the twelfth of may --

their very first grandson came to play.

but when school time drew nigh,

the boy started to cry

as from rooms full of people, he shied away.

then along came the time for all to say,

"will you be mine? happy valentine's day!"

a bag of paper hearts

helped the boy to start

unfolding in friendship -- come what may.

now i sit here and type in my way.

i look at those paper hearts, and i pray,

"thank You, God, for my boy,

for our home filled with joy,

and yes, thanks especially for valentine's day!"