His Name Was Valentine

Your image faded through the years
I trace each line and furrow
Among your family there you stand
Unaware of tomorrow, tomorrow.

For your days are short and soon to end
Though youth is on your side,
The dragon's heat from steelyards
Will life and death divide.

I've seen this photo in the past
But paid it no attention.
I find it strange that nothing was said
And how little they failed to mention

Exactly who this man had been
So handsome and so strong;
A husband and a father of seven
And one more infant, long gone.

But now I am a grandmother
And with curiosity that grew
I wish I had asked more questions
About this man I never knew.

They did say you were a kind man
Your name was Valentine.
I am so sorry we never met
Dearest Grandfather of mine.