One of the things that has stood out to me while listening to everyone's stories and comments about my dad...is just how much people have talked about his joyful smile. It's not really something I had thought about or even really considered as being a huge part of him. But as I listened to all of you, I realized just how much his joy was a quiet joy... one that danced behind a playful smile and a knowing look. Rarely did my dad talk and express his feelings; however, I (and all of you) could see it in his smile and in his presence alone. It is because of your comments that I found myself reflecting on him and exactly who he was a person. Not just my father (or Keith's), or my mom's husband, or Joslyn and Zach's grandad... but that he was a quiet man who didn't need to speak a lot of words for when he did everyone listened. Even if they were corny. :) In this tribute poem below, I am reflecting not only on my dad but on the person that everyone else saw and knew. Just the essence of who he was. I hope it somehow reflects the man that you remember. --Keri ============== “A Quiet Joy” A joyous smile Hinting at a secret buried within A sort of contentment That can only be found in the quiet The quiet is where you spent your time Only occasionally letting words pass your lips But when they escaped Others couldn't help but stop and listen To words of wisdom Laced with a touch of humor A signature grin You are proof That the quiet ones are remembered And that their memory echoes louder Than we could have possibly imagined Memories not only of a caring, guiding father Or a husband gently holding his wife But memories of a teacher doing more than waving his arms A leader capturing others attention with a single whisper Such a joyous smile A content heart You were all these things and more Much more than a memory Still living here, breathing through me. --12/27/12 (Copyright Keri Spencer)