"My Portrait Of A Leader"
 by Raye McDonald 

If I could paint the portrait of a
           great leader,
I would first paint in the shape of
            honesty, and then
I would add several bold strokes
          of determination.

I would lightly brush in a soft
     voice, a slowness to anger,
and blend these together with a
       spirit of compassion.

I would dip into the hue of love,
     especially for children and
             the elderly, and
seek a very smooth brush to render
                humility.

I would search my palette for
     a special color to render
respect for family, friends, and
              co-workers.

I would add a lot of the color
        of laughter, and the
entire canvas would glow with
         a strong faith in a
          Higher Power.

And finally, when finished, I would frame
             this montage of unique
traits, in sturdy oak, and hope that all
      who looked upon it would find
                       inspiration.


****************************

Posted- September 1999--
This poem was written in honor of my husband of forty two years, Judge L. B.
McDonald, who is a good man and a great leader.