A Son’s Gratitude

were i half the man you are,
i might have spared myself
years of torment
and suffering.
you have never waivered
in your faith.
i truly admire that
about you.
the answer was always God.
i pray for many more years
of your knowledge
and that you might one day see
the man i could raise.
thank you
for years of sacrifices,
of dreams delayed,
of hopes put to rest,
all so that we could one day look back
and see your measure.
i hope
that when the days grow long
and you look back on your life,
you are filled with joy
and pride
at how your children
have embodied your teachings.

i love you,
dad.
Happy Father’s Day.

~lt