Don't Stop, A Letter To My Wife Poem by Curtis Johnson

Don’t Stop, A Letter To My Wife
By Curtis Johnson

Dear Barbara

I have attempted to shield you from uncaring and mean spirited people, thinking that I was helping you.
I have tried to coral and box you in, caution and counsel you, thinking that I was helping you.
I have often sought to change you, delay you, detour you, thinking that I was helping you.
I have since discovered that when I step aside, just letting you be you, I am helping you.

You give so unselfishly to me, our children, and their children. You must not stop.
You continue to prepare those festive meals, unmatched and memorable. Don’t stop.
I frequently protest saying, “Cook less”; but you never cease to give your best.
You make great sacrifices for your family, often going without. Don‘t stop.

The way you reach out to people, giving them all you’ve got. Don’t stop
The confidence you build, the love you give, and the prayers you pray. Don’t stop
The dear ones you befriend, when their welcome elsewhere has worn thin. Don’t stop.
That same smile that captured me 45 years ago, that you continue to give to others; Don’t stop.

No doubt, from time to time, I’ll continually do things, thinking I’m helping you.
But please pay me no mind, and simply continue to be all God intended for you to be.
Cj11122015