In His Footsteps

On his shoulders 
he carried 
me,
when I tarried 
when young.
He’d huddle me close,
and tell me the stories
Of how he grew up.
The things that he loved to do most.

Correct me when wrong.
And punish when bad he’d
Protect me from harm,
And when ill -
He’d wrap me in blankets,
And nurse by my side,
Till one day I grew up
And rebelled.

In your footsteps 
You wanted
Me to have followed,
And done everything by your will.
But I’m my own person,
So listen to my side,
Are you in with me this time
Or still…?

Do you not answer?
Hear my pain call?
As I struggle to find my own way.
Is it time I departed?
Is it time that I learnt?
To have my own will
What d’you say?

Well I’m sorry 
You’re silent.
You’re so disappointed.
But I know that you feel
I am wrong.
I can’t take this no longer
I’m so full of anger.
To my misery
Is there no end?

Well I’m out!...
Do you hear me?...
Dont misunderstand me.
I’m grateful for what you have done.
But for now
I don’t know me.
I don’t know the answers.
I’ll pack up my things and be gone!

But then
you say to me
Just listen – child listen,
One day 
you will settle
You’ll see.
You’ll be married. 
With children.
Putting food on the table -
Working hard to bring in the dough
Then you’ll think of these words
Just follow my footsteps
That way you will
Come to no harm.

And the voice in your head
Will silently say -
I told you,
Was right all along.
I’m your father
I taught you to follow 
my footsteps;
To know what is right and
Whats wrong!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2010

Poem

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Scars Avatar
October 18, 2016 at 7:30 AM
beautiful Anna-Marie :) congrats on your placement :)-luloo
Docherty Avatar
October 18, 2016 at 8:19 AM
How very kind, thank you luloo.
Wigley Avatar
October 18, 2016 at 12:21 AM
Indeed, Anna-Marie, such words still trickle down through the ages. Congrats! Viv x
Docherty Avatar
October 18, 2016 at 8:20 AM
Kind of rigs of that I told you so scenario... thanks for your comment and view!
Nusker Avatar
October 17, 2016 at 10:58 PM
Amazing write, Anna. Congrats on your win with this fabulous poem.
Docherty Avatar
October 18, 2016 at 8:21 AM
Glad you enjoyed this Afzal, thank you for such a generous comment - good to see you here.
Lanier Avatar
December 13, 2010 at 5:19 PM
Nice write Anna, it is fortunate for you that you had a father who instilled these words in your mind. So many kids now days don't have a parent who cares about them that way.
Kendrick Avatar
September 30, 2010 at 4:22 PM
Enjoyed reading your work..Your father should be honored to have a daughter who loves him so much...Sara
Dietrich Avatar
September 21, 2010 at 9:06 PM
Was re-reading this one. It's really so nice, Anna Marie!
Mannan Avatar
September 19, 2010 at 9:35 PM
What a beautiful poem. It reminds me of my childhood. great job Anna. Thanks for your comments.
Rhinem Avatar
September 19, 2010 at 3:36 PM
Smile ~ "Your Radiance" splendidly &, it is very nice to see "Your Treasures" again dear ~ And "Yes," from what I remember about "Your Wonders Dear," seems like alls well that ends well &, blessed be those, whom help mold our lives ~ "Beautiful Poem Anna Marie" ~ "Much Love & Warmth to You & Yours, Always," John! ~ Smile, "Have A Very Blessed & Beautiful Day 'Dear, Lovely Lady,' Amid 'The Soft & Tender Hands of, Beautiful Love;'" Bye Dear!:) ~
Rhinem Avatar
September 19, 2010 at 3:27 PM
Smile ~ What a wonderful poem of lifes moments, gifts, journies, questions etc., wrapped amid the wisdoms of hope & perseverence &, the blessings of loved ones whom pass these treasures on along with, a tribute towards "Your Beauties" father or figure whom seems to have impacted "Your" own life dear....Smile, "Hello Precious & Lovely Anna Marie;" its been a moment in time since I beheld "Your Splendors Dear" &, I truly hope that life has been treating ~ ....Cont:)
Dietrich Avatar
September 19, 2010 at 11:00 AM
Sounds like you had a close relationship with a dad. I never had that. Is this factual. If so, it sounds like there was quite a conflict! I just hope you stayed close! Luv, Andrea
Wilson Avatar
September 18, 2010 at 7:48 PM
A very deep memory of father and his teaching to the child..loved it..Take care~Deb
Falotico Avatar
September 18, 2010 at 9:53 AM
Good well written memory...always Michael
A   Avatar
September 18, 2010 at 9:42 AM
A nice reminder of our father and his footsteps. Enjoyed your poem, God bless,..p.d.
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