Today is my Granddaughter, Eva's 13th birthday. That's a big one; she's entering into her teenage years. I feel especially close to Eva. We often go for long walks and sit by the Saugatuck River drinking coffee and solving the world's problems. So here are some verses I wrote to celebrate all of that. It's so much fun being Eva's "Baba." For Eva I have cherished brave Eva From the day She was born. We’ve been friends from that moment Through rose and sharp thorn. We’ve walked miles together In sun, showers, and snow In deep conversation Whenever we go. Sitting hard by the river Eating cheese and egg sandies And donuts From "Coffee an’" Sweet as Halloween candies. We talk about school And “Democracy Now.” We discuss what we’ve written, How to follow the Tao. We talk about Life And its meanings so deep About New Worlds, Marx, and Malcolm. That make our minds leap To conclusions unexpected With insights brand-new. Eva learns from her Baba. Baba learns from her too. Now she’s turning 13 Entering teenage at last. I just can’t believe Life is passing that fast. But I’m confident Eva Will serve the world well. She’ll write books That will change it And save it from hell. She’s a philosopher you see She’s a lover of truth (A grammar snob also But never uncouth.) So, Eva, let me tell you At this age of 13 Just how much I love you. You’re the best girl I’ve seen. God’s blessings upon you. Be safe, happy, protected. Be loved by your friends. Be never rejected Because your heart is so pure. Your thoughts are so clear. That’s why we all love you And hold you so dear. That’s specially true for Baba Your companion and friend Your grandpa who’ll protect you Till his own life shall end. And beyond that I promise For our hearts have been blended From your moment of birth. Love like ours Can’t be ended! Happy birthday, dearest Eva!!
About Things That Matter 
Lovely poem!
Mike is Eva the granddaughter who you at one point stated is self described atheist? I often wonder what Dan McGinn would tell me if I shared with him now that my faith is dashed. I often say to myself and others, “if the RC Church is wrong about my son, what else are they wrong about?”
Self proclaimed agnostic,
Ann Franczyk
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Yes, Ann, Eva describes herself as an atheist. And I’d bet Dan would agree that your reasons for agnosticism (and your question) are entirely justified. I too have a hard time understanding why the hierarchy continues to embarrass itself by speaking on matters about which it has been totally discredited. It just keeps digging its own grave. Very sad.
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Yes, Ann, she’s that granddaughter. She’s told me that she has “unbaptized” herself! You’re right; the church has been wrong about so much. We all really need to rethink our (former) faith. Dan would agree.
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What a sweet poem! Blessings for Eva and her Baba Mike!
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Thanks, Bpb. We all love our grandchildren, don’t we. They’re such a blessing! And they’re all so extraordinary.
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Thanks, Bob. It’s so much fun being Baba. Merry Christmas and the best new year ever!
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Mike, this is a beautiful poem and heartfelt, touching words that describe a wonderful relationship. Thank you for sharing. Teri
On Mon, Nov 15, 2021 at 3:55 PM About Things That Matter wrote:
> Mike Rivage-Seul’s Blog posted: ” Today is my Granddaughter, Eva’s 13th > birthday. That’s a big one; she’s entering into her teenage years. I feel > especially close to Eva. We often go for long walks and sit by the > Saugatuck River drinking coffee and solving the world’s problems. So ” >
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Thanks, Teri. Hope all is going well for you and your family. Have a very happy holiday season. Greetings to Craig.
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