On Amanda's Birthday

Nov. 25, 2013
On this day in '84 we learned what life was really for
having children, giving birth, souls in bodies on the earth
First-time parents, we were in awe, what we felt and what we saw
Dear Amanda had arrived and from day one this family thrived
She was sweet and kind to us, quick to smile and not to fuss
Her first laughter came one night filled our hearts with such delight
Had to wonder what we'd done, before she came to bring such fun
once she had an idea wild, get everyone to sponsor a child
with Compassion International, and her efforts were quite intentional
In home-school she set the pace, while her siblings found their place
she loved to read, she loved to learn, she always let others have their turn
In high school helping with youth group, or in our kitchen serving soup
Amanda's love and care for others, went beyond her sisters and brothers
Moving to India she worked to free families from sla-ver-y
meeting Joel in God's good time, made her life-long poem rhyme
now in Salem they're a team, in their eyes there is a gleam
Seeking God's Kingdom to advance, finding their Divine Romance
Daughter Amanda you surely shine, as you're turning twenty nine!
Happy Birthday! LOVE, Mom & Dad