Sheltered in Your Arms - For My Father
Nostalgia brings upon the day, where photos of my youth,
Draw back the distant memories, the gentle side of truth;
There was a time when I was young, 'twas rocked within your arms,
Your gentle strength consumed by infant tenderness and charms.
I see you dad, your smile and warmth, the pride upon your face,
While in your arms, I'm cradled in this snapshot, filled with grace;
And as I turn the pages of these cherished memories,
I see you there beside me, as I grew from infancy.
A treasured figure in my eyes, the father I revered,
So bold and strong, 'twas nothing that my hero ever feared;
I placed you on a pedestal, for daddies, they knew all,
And though sometimes I made mistakes, you always caught my fall.
Impetuous and driven through my teenage years, I was,
But always you stood by me, gave your warmth, your care, your love;
And when I strayed, you offered me the wisdom of your years,
Though sometimes I could hear it not, through tantrums or through tears.
But try, you did, to guide me with the lessons that you taught,
Now tucked within my youthful mind years later, to be sought;
My wiser soul looks back upon this long, well-traveled path,
To realize you taught me well ... now daddy, "please don't laugh".
I know you wondered often, where you had gone wrong sometimes,
For in my slight exuberance, I walked a narrow line;
But steadfastly you were my rock, though I not always showed,
The feelings deep within my heart, for all your love bestowed.
So if I haven't thanked you for the patience you have shown,
As I was slowly learning from your strength that I have known,
Then dad, it's time I told you, for I think it every day,
I'm grateful for the love we've shared, for all your caring ways.
So for your patience, love and strength; the life that we have had,
Please know that in my heart of hearts ... I love you, my dear dad.