Rev. Dr. Roland Hayes Crowder was born January 13, 91 years ago.  He has fathered five children, and I was the fifth.  Today we are celebrating his 91st birthday, and as I started writing poetry, I created a work that I hope he can enjoy.  My father always wanted me to write something positive, so I hope this can be a fitting tribute.  The photo above was from celebrating his 90th birthday last year:

Ode to Father

By Hiram F. Crowder

Dear Dad,
For all the hugs you gave, For all the tears you dried
For all the time you spent making memories to be treasured
For answering questions asked by one so young
For saying prayers and tucks in bed
For giving gifts and accepting gifts given
For sharing words of wisdom when needed most
For being a man of God, a man of the Word
And a man who keeps his word
For being a help in times of need
For letters written and visits made
To distant lands far from home
For taking me along on trips to different cities
For setting an example worth following
For showing the love of God in so many ways
Even these few words cannot explain them all
Thank God for you, and thank you for everything
With love from your son

Happy Birthday, Dad.  Wishing you all the best and more.