Joseph’s Song

I felt alone, I felt betrayed. How could Mary feel such joy when I felt so afraid? Though I wanted to believe her when she said an angel came. I feared that she would only

bring me shame. I wish that I could understand why this has come to be. The life I built with rugged hands is just a broken dream. The pain within my heart is more than any

I have known. How could I ever hold this Child and love him as my own? And then last night the angel came. While I dreamed he spoke to me and called me by my name.

He consoled my fear with comfort, and my faith became renewed. I knew that Mary’s words to me were true. Although I do not understand why this has come to be. A father

who has rugged hands will find the strength he needs to build a place within his heart where tenderness is shown. These rugged hands can hold God’s Child, yet love him

as my own. I’ll love him as my own.