Baptism Poem

for my dear daughter, on the occasion of her baptism

Anna Lucia
of bright eyes
and plump cheeks
and a grin that's a wee bit crooked

ever-ready
with your fast laugh
and a glance over your shoulder
as you run away

though I  meant to show you
what I know
of the Kingdom among
and to come

and of a Teacher
himself of bright smile
and quick gait
who knew the value of wandering

I also intend to chase after you
to keep up as best I can
and see what your life
teaches us both

so run fast
and fearless
until you can laugh and look back
and leave me behind