THREE WOMEN
by John T. Baker
I nursed a woman; suckling at her breast
I learned of tenderness and sacrifice,
Of gentle jest and whimsy in an age
Of angst, compassion in a world of wrath.

I wed a woman, marching at her side
I learned of staunch resolve and fortitude,
Of fierce devotion to integrity,
Of steadfast loyalty and proper pride.

I sired a woman, witnessing her bloom
I learned of innocence and awe, of mirth
And mystery, of endless winsome wiles
And boundless zest for wonders yet to come.

Mother, daughter, wife: that noble clan
Of women who have made me more a man.