“My Father Taught Me,” Friend, June 1976, 45 My Father Taught Me Mabel Jones Gabbott Michael F. Moody With confidence My father taught me to listen To wild birds’ morning song, To laughter of the rippling brook, To gladness all day long. My father taught me courage. When I would walk away And leave unpleasant work undone, He gave me strength to stay. At evening when dark shadows Were waiting everywhere, He helped me find a special Friend. My father taught me prayer.