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ANDREW JACKSON STURTEVANT


This week was your birthday
August 2, 1994
You say you're 67
But we think it's a few year more

It seems like your were 67 last year
When we had your birthday party
I guess it doesn't matter
As long as you're alive and hardy

You can be proud of your life
Your grandfather incorporated Pilot Rock
Your families name is in the Umatilla County history books
You have worked hard not just talked

You ran a restaurant for over 25 years
Been an important member of your town
Helped out those in need
As they would come around

And father-in-law you love me so
I can tell you're proud of me
You hug me and kiss me and let me know
I'm an important member of your family

I see the disgusted look
You give your son
Because as a husband
He hasn't won

I know you wish he would be better
Be the man that you have been
I know it hurts you that he's not
And he's your closest kin

Who knows what our children will be?
We can only do our best
And set them free
It's up to them and God to do the rest

I love you, Jack, my father-in-law
And wish I spent more time with you and Joanne
I wish I had more time to be a wife
But I have to accept I'm more like a husband

Your son could change this
If he would get a full-time job
It doesn't seem like he really cares
From me my wifely status he has robbed

I don't want to lose you, Jack
Lose the extended family I love
What do I do with your son?
I keep praying to God above

Jack, why can't he be more like you?
The ruler of the house, a provider, a business man?
Why doesn't he have any pride or ambition?
Why doesn't he do all he can?

It drives me to want to run away
Into others arms, into the night
How long do I have to stay?
When I know his behavior isn't right?

I don't want to hurt you, Jack
I don't want this marriage to fail
I want a decent man; though, father-in-law
One who doesn't make my life a living hell

So please forgive
If in the future, I send him away
It doesn't mean I don't care for you
It just means, I can't take it another day.


8/5/1994 cj








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