His answer is always “yes” when it comes to loving on our kids. He picks us up off the ground. He’s fearless (which is where Deacon learned it from). He loves babies whether they came from me or from the car seat of a case worker. He shows fatherly love to those who wouldn’t have it otherwise. He’s one of the good ones. I’m not sure they know how lucky they are yet, but someday they will.

It must be very difficult
To be a man in grief.
Since “men don’t cry” and “men are strong”
No tears can bring relief.

It must be very difficult
To stand up to the test.
And field calls and visitors
So that she can get some rest.

They always ask if she’s alright
And what she’s going through.
But seldom take his hand and ask,
“My friend, how are you?”

He hears her cry in the night
And thinks his heart will break.
And dries her tears and comforts her
But “stays strong” for her sake.

It must be very difficult
To start each day anew.
And try to be so very brave-
He lost his babies too.

—Eileen Hagemeister