
His head bowed, and on bended knee
I hear my father praying for me
Soundless, motionless – he utters no words
His posture is strong and relaxed
Unto the untrained eye he appears asleep
But I notice the water lines upon his cheeks
I question: Am I the cause of my father’s tears?
I know that I’m not always at my best
It often seems I fail the most simple tests
Trying to be me and conform to no other
Is that the burden I’m placing upon his shoulder?
What have my mischiefs done to break his heart,
That he can’t even utter the words out loud?
I feel ashamed that I’ve made him less than proud
Disappointed in being my father’s wayward child
I try slowly to back out through the door, saddened
He calls my name, softly raising his extended hand
I tremble that he’s caught me in a fault again
For he is the man I love
I am ashamed that he cries
My own tears wet the nook of his neck
His soothing words as we embrace
I drown in his arms, my face awash
As my daddy whispers with loving care
That forever I am his and he is mine
And, I never need fear that it will change
Says he, … For you are loved of me,
Unconditionally!