My Last Goodbye

As I reflect upon my life, it scares me in a way
For, my condescending attitude was never okay.

Once a strong, brave soldier, I never contemplated fear
Nether did I comprehend a real man could shed a tear.

My children, how I loved you, but this I couldn’t show
Now, as I lay here dying, you still may never know.

I’m sorry, my dear children, for not always being there
I knew you had your mother, but that didn’t make it fair

It’s not that I was an awful man; for, I performed good deeds too
But, they were in between the harshness and often misconstrued

Once indestructible, I’ve now been dropped down to my knees
Now, it’s I with supplications, demandings and pleas.

Please don’t feel sorry for the pains I now endure
For, God has granted me repentance, this you can be sure.

I will cross into love rather than a bleak, black hole
My purgatory’s been erased, I’m paying now in full

Please learn to fathom that though you see tears in my eyes
I’m ever growing stronger and preparing for my demise 

Now as I say my last goodbye, I want to let you know
I truly loved each one of you though you didn’t believe it so

And as I breathe my last breaths, please always understand
It was being your father that made me into a man.

 


Dedicated to my friend, Mimi, as her father passed away.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2010

Poem

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Thomer Avatar
November 2, 2010 at 4:36 PM
the last line was so powerful. this was a very deep and impacting write, well penned kimberly. --Madison
Cwiak Avatar
August 14, 2010 at 2:24 PM
What a great write. It says so much in such few words. Keep the pen flowing. Dan C ps. Thanks for your comments on my work.
Belt Avatar
May 18, 2010 at 11:00 AM
An Awesome Write Kimberly.....Larry
Fraser Avatar
May 9, 2010 at 6:44 AM
Beautiful poem Kimberly, and a lovely dedication. Many congratulations on your win in Nathan's fine contest >> James
Green Avatar
May 8, 2010 at 6:19 PM
Really nice, though sad, read. Intriguing exploration.
Sweetheart Avatar
May 8, 2010 at 4:10 PM
Confrats on your HM in Nathan's contest.. a wonderful honor for a wonderful write..luv.. Linda-Marie..
W Avatar
May 4, 2010 at 7:00 PM
What a beautiful way to interpret a last goodbye. I can only imagine that thought comes with such confusions and angst--with so many things going left unsaid. Thoughtful write, Kimberly.
Culverhouse Avatar
May 3, 2010 at 7:16 AM
enjoyed
Dietrich Avatar
May 1, 2010 at 9:47 PM
So many men are this way, at least the "old fashioned ones" of my mom's generation, many with great hearts, too bad they learned too late how to really be that "man" But I like how you ended with the hopeful note! Very nice. LUv, Andrea
Delacroix Avatar
May 1, 2010 at 9:19 PM
A very nice write and great dedication to your friend. Thanks for sharing and thank you for your comments on mine today. Best wishes, Caroline.
Sweetheart Avatar
May 1, 2010 at 4:11 PM
Kimberly this is an excellent piece of poetry.. did u enter it in Nathan's contest The Opposite Sex as i6 fits perfectly... a very touching write and thankxxx for your kind comments on my poetry today.. luv from the "Sweetheart" .. just posted a new blog if u care to comment....
Riley Avatar
May 1, 2010 at 3:57 PM
amen, not much to say, touching and deep, well written thanks for sharring. Judy riley
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