My Dad

When I awoke this morning
I thought about my dad.
To realize that he is gone
has made me very sad.

For when I was a baby
and he held me in his arms,
though I could not understand
I was protected from life's harms.

Then, as a boy he guided me
and taught me to be strong.
He said, "treat folks with kindness
and you'll always get along."

He stood outside in wind and rain
and coached me on the field.
He shared both wins and losses
those his feelings were concealed.

He encouraged me with schooling
and taught me to drive a car.
He picked me up from journeys
after I had traveled far.

We'd work together side by side
and differences would air.
But when the night was over
we would always find repair.

I've thought about my life with him
and all the things he's done.
I'm proud to say that in the end
I am, my father's son.

*for my dad 1932-1996