I Miss My Daddy So

Julie was wearing her new frock today, With a pretty broach to complete her display. She had brushed her shoes; put a bow in her hair, Smiling as if she did not have a care. Julie was eight, having no Dad meant a lot , Having no Dad to Julie was a blot. Mummy suggested today Julie should stay at home, It was Father’s day and she would have to go alone. The kids will taunt her, “What, no dad by your side?” Sneering “Has he done a runner, or locked up in side?” Julie was eager to tell everyone why Daddy had not come to school, The Dad she never sees, goes walking with, or plays ball. He used to tell her stories before she went to bed, Most were happy ones, some just came out of his head. At school the Dad’s and their children on stage came and went. The teachers encouraged everyone to join in the fun. Regardless whether you were pupil, Father or Mum . Julie’s turn came, she went out slowly and alone, Children shouted with nastiness in their tone, “Has the old man done a runner, is that why you are alone ? “ One shouted” Did your Dad think you were a waste of time? If so, get off the stage with me and others that’s fine.” The insults did not upset or offend her, Speak now when you are ready her mother said with an encouraging purr. Julie held the mike lowered into the right position, Her following words stunned the audience into a gentle submission. “My Daddy could not be here today. Even though this is a very special day. He would want to be, he now lives in a land far away , Unfortunately he has to there permanently stay. Though you could meet him perhaps in another place , That of course if there is enough space, He was a British soldier killed a year ago, He was blown to bits by a landmine, no pain did he know. He never had time to say goodbye to Mum or me. If we need help or comfort we feel his presence and warmth you see” Everyone in the hall had a tear in their eye, No more shouting just the occasional sigh. Then in the silence sweet angelic music was heard, Accompanied by the singing of the gentle songbird. Daddy was saying goodbye, which he could not do before, To his wonderful wife and Julie whom he did truly adore Both Julie and Mum went home that day, Their spirits and happiness had risen in every way. All at that meeting realised that they had witnessed a blessing from God on High, It would be remembered and cherished by everyone until the day they die.