FATHER AND SON

Be more than his dad,

Be a chum to the lad;

Be a part of his life

Every hour of the day;

Find time to talk with him,

Take time to walk with him,

Share in his studies

And share in his play;

Take him to places,

To ball games and races,

Teach him the things

That you want him to know;

Do n't live apart from him,

Do n't keep your heart from him,

Be his best comrade,

He's needing you so!

Never neglect him,

Though young, still respect him,

Hear his opinions

With patience and pride;

Show him his error,

But be not a terror,

Grim-visaged and fearful,

When he's at your side.

Know what his thoughts are,

Know what his sports are,

Know all his playmates,

It's easy to learn to;

Be such a father

That when troubles gather

You'll be the first one

For counsel, he'll turn to.

You can inspire him

With courage, and fire him

Hot with ambition

For deeds that are good;

He'll not betray you

Nor illy repay you,

If you have taught him

The things that you should.

Father and son

Must in all things be one —

Partners in trouble

And comrades in joy.

More than a dad

Was the best pal you had;

Be such a chum

As you knew, to your boy.