He Never Left Us


I spent the early part of my life
Giving little to no thought of my
Father and what he meant to me.

I later discovered by self analysis
That I'd subconsciously shut him out,
Thinking of nothing positive about him.

But there came a day when I was 54,
At a family reunion, a younger sister
Shed some light on our dad. On that
Summer day in Oklahoma, my entire
Attitude toward my father was forever
Changed.

He was no longer just an angry man
Who smoked and drank heavily; who
Verbally abused any who stood aversed
To him; who seldom smiled and was hard
To please.

He died when I was 13, and I reconsidered
That had he lived longer than 58 years, we
Would have gotten to know each other better
In spite of there being 11 minor children.
I tell you, I rethought a host of things and
Began to write about him and the treasure
of his brief life.

Today, please allow me to say in a few words
One item from daddy's treasure chest. Daddy
Provided a modest livelihood for mother and
Us, NEVER LEAVING US UNTIL THE DAY OF
HIS DEMISE.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

Poem

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June 20, 2026 at 2:28 PM
Sometimes we never realise until we are older.. many will relate to this.. Congratulations on your placement in the contest..
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