Ava's Hugs

The first my starlit darling girl knew dawn, A sleepy heart awoke in peaceful sun, So pure was love escaped sweet-newborn fawn, My own rejoiced renewal brought by one. The first an angel spread resplendent wings, And traveled forth her purpose bright ‘n true, I sang a song that’s heard when robin sings, While noontime skies made glow my child of two. The first bright burst from trumpets sounded clear, Rehearsed chaotic joy becoming free, With pride I beamed in evening’s pastel air, For daughter’s self-awareness learned at three. When four my shadow looked ‘twards me and said, As twilight danced unseen through pain in store; “Will you still love me, daddy, when you’re dead?” I held her tight and said “I’ll love you more.” The first I had withheld my Ava’s hugs, When marriage found steep cliffs then took a dive, I thought of times I’d met now-lacked with shrugs, Before I knew I’d see her not at five. 10/6/2016 Submitted for: Iambic Pentameter Contest