As you know, I live out in the boondocks,
And I found it exceedingly hard
To make my way into the city
To buy you a nice birthday card.
But had I been able to do so
I’d have searched through each store & each shop
For a card with a frilly-blue border
And a white curlicue at the top;
One with a baby-pink center,
Bedecked with a soft-downy lace,
Designed in the shape of a flaming red heart
With a warm, loving smile on its face.
I’d have wanted the best of all poets
To have captured in verse what I’d say
In tenderest words and expressions
To you on your happy birthday.
I’d have sent you the colors of sunset,
The warmth of an October noon,
The song of a lark in a meadow,
The aura of wildflowers in June;
Paths that were lined with red roses,
Hills that were covered with flowers,
Valleys with far-flung horizons,
Pine trees fresh-bathed in Spring showers;
Strength that would rout every weakness,
Courage to flaunt every fear,
Patience to wait for the morning,
Trust that would dry every tear;
The glow of an Aspenglen campfire,
The bright, cheery words that it spoke,
The voices we heard in the embers,
The faces we saw in the smoke;
Rest for your mind when it’s weary,
Peace for your heart when it’s torn,
Joy to dispel the night shadows,
Softness and sweetness of morn;
Love that would never be silenced,
Hope that was belted and gloved,
Faith that would walk through the darkness,
Comfort in knowing you’re loved.
I console myself in remembering
That had I tried ever so hard,
Had I searched and searched for a lifetime,
I could not have found such a card.
So, in my crude, simple fashion;
Not frilly, not fancy, I pray
That joy, and peace and contentment
Be with you on your dear birthday.
Once more, I know it’s not fancy;
But warm wishes and blessings I send
To one who’s not only my daughter,
But to one who is also my friend.
Hal Upchurch, 1982