Stand Tall My Boy

Your laughter fades like autumn's breath

Old chairs empty cold as death

But your hands still mold this heart of stone—

Taught me strength when I felt alone

Photo albums whisper tales untold

Of battles fought and dreams you'd hold

Stand tall my boy you'd always say

Face the storm—don't let it sway

Work-worn hands but you held mine tight

Mapped my path by your kerosene light

Now I'm the man you dreamed I'd be

Brave and bold yet missing keys

Your voices hum in every dawn—

A faded song but still plays on

Though graves hold bones your words take flight

Guiding stars through my darkest night

your worn-out shoes line memory's hall

I tread their path though shadows fall

You fed my fire with courage's spark

Lit the way through roads so dark

Fear's a thief you'd warn with grace

Don't let it steal your rightful place

Now I'm the man you dreamed I'd be

Strong and sure yet not whole you see

Your voice dance in every rhyme

A timeless beat against the chime

I trace your names in weathered wood

Your lessons root where sorrow stood

The world spins on but love won't bleed

Seeds you planted bloom in every deed

I live your hopes in skies I chase

Your wisdom etched in every face

Gone yet here in breath in bone

I carry you I'm never alone