My Dad's "Real Brie"

A few days ago, when I wrote the post Time to Move On, my dad sent me an email. In it he attached a poem that he had written for me seven years ago, telling me that he believed I was ready to read the poem again, to really read it. At the time, back then oh so many years ago, I read it and I appreciated it, because I knew he loved me and wanted so much to reach me, to contact any part of me, however small, into believing the words he had written. But I don’t think I did. Back then, I was too far gone in ED-Land.

So I read it again, for the first time in seven years. And it brought tears to my eyes. Because my dad is a good father. An amazing human being. He has more love for people than I’ve ever known or seen. He is a humanitarian. (Here he is, pictured in Africa, delivering aid to those in need.)  He is humble.

And he has a beautiful way with words.

The Real Brie Brown

The name, Brienne, is quite oft spoken,
For those who see her always inquire,
Who is that girl with grace and beauty
Who captures our minds as embers of fire?

She’s smart and classy – she’s quite demure,
A leader, a teacher, a friend to all.
She’s kind and caring and sensitive to others,
Dignified, loving and cute – and tall!

Those who love her know that they know her,
The Real Brie Brown who we vigorously applaud.
Not bent or broken or cast away,
But noble and good – a child of God.

Her response, of course, is to set us straight,
To convince us surely of scar and wart,
But our eyes, less judging, perceive more clearly,
The great eternal good in this young heart.

Look at the goodness – acknowledge your beauty,
Cast off the shadows that darken your way.
The Savior, Our Father, Our Friend and Redeemer
Knows of the trials, the sunshine and grey.
He understands problems, unfairness and error,
He sheds tears of sorrow for those whom he loves.
But he’ll never abandon one of His children,
Precious as angels that dwell up above.

Take time to consider the past with its problems,
Deal with frustration and tears, and with anger,
But never forget the truth our dear daughter,
Your worth is eternal forever and ever.

No matter the reason for doubt and for sorrow,

No matter the fears and the worries you feel,

Time with its healing has ways in its making

To restore in your mind the former appeal.

One may have beauty, the other compassion,

And each with his weakness plays out his day

Brie as our equal, our sister and daughter,

Eternal, forever and ever will stay.

Written by

H.B.

June 2002

Love you Dad.
(Pictured in January, 2005, in Indonesia, after the major tsunami in late December 2004, delivering aid to the survivors and refugees.)