Dad

I wish I could hold and love your hands And kiss them with my tear-filled eyes. For me you’ve always been everything Parent, teacher, breadearner and guide: You gave me and my siblings the best Of care and generous love and support. Your gracious regard helps us be greater Than we’d ever have been in our lives: Richer, happier, assured and dynamic In a future in which you’d ever be great. With mom, you held us close to your hearts Till the time came and adversity arrived And I had to go abroad. He refused to let me go. I showed him my tattered shoes and shirt And told him how proud we had been As long as he was earning and supported Us in schools and colleges and paid all fees. Now the times had changed and we needed Big money to build careers worthwhile. Both of us wept and he said, “Yes, you may go.” But mother, so proud and sure of her children She was in hospital but I was sure she’d be fine And accept my decision, she was a realist. Unto parents worldwide, my respectful salute. They endure pain and suffering yet sacrifice The joy of parenthood to see us through Like the One Above who feels our pain And helps us to rise and conquer misfortune And attain the success and glory we sought.