Daddy and Jasmine

Daddy: I tried to throw aside childish ways. But to no avail. I was already in jail the day you came into this world. When I first saw the tiny little girl. I had her named "Jasmine", my heavenly pearl. Jasmine: Now little Jasmine has been wondering where daddy is. She wonders if it's her fault or his. Who's to blame? It doesn't matter it hurts all the same. No need to point fingers at mommy or daddy and calling names. That would just cause more pain. And harder to explain. Little Jasmine wonders how much longer he'll be gone. She notices other little girls with their fathers at home. She's embarrassed her daddy's not around but continues on. She's learned to be strong. It's been so long since daddy was there for her birthday. Today she had a school play. She was so nervous, yet no one encouraged her, she would do okay. Jasmine is used to daddy being M.I.A. Over the years she's learned a lot. She can't help but miss daddy - she's not a robot. She wants to tell him her dreams of being an astranaut. But he's not around, to take her to the play ground, and spin her on the merry go round. Last week she learned to ride her bike and to swim. She's learning to live her life without him. Daddy: Don't you dare think I don't care. Because I was not there to braid your hair. I was young and dumb Always on the run. Like my own father - that's who I've become. A lot of mistakes. But I wanted so bad to be a father for your sake. Not being in your life was tremendous heartache. I am sorry for not being there to play patty-cake. I wish I had been there to see you in school plays. Wish I had seen you blow out candles your last eight birthdays. As the years passed, I've achingly watched you grow up in photographs. I've thought about you every single day. I did my best to stay in touch, with letters, cards, pictures and such. Just to let you know, you ere missed so much. I enjoyed every single letter you wrote to me. I was so proud to be your daddy. I was surprised to see a ten year old be so smart. Sending your own letters in the mail to me touched my heart. Because you thought of me like I thought of you. Now that shows a fathers value! I do promise to be there in the long run. Daddy loves you Jasmine Ann Anderson! Note: A child spells love " T.I.M.E."! Another man can never take my place as a "father', but he can definately take my position! I had to learn this the hard way......