Fathers

I forgive you dad

I forgive you Dad for the many ways you failed,

Now that I am a Dad I understand much more

How difficult it is to be what we should be 

To be there when they need us most

Not finding an excuse to be elsewhere.

To listen to what they say and wipe away their tears.

To kiss and cuddle them when they fall 

And not be angry when they fail.

But just be there to commiserate. 

Wouldn't it be great if we could be like that

And not lose our tempers and smack.

Because we remember our own past

When you thought smacking was all dad's did

I forgive you Dad, I love you even so.

So many years have passed and I am a Dad again

I have been given a second chance

Not to make the same mistakes again

Not to allow my ego to get in the way

So that I listen more and say much less

I hope my sons will not need to forgive me 

But just grow with the love I give

I'll tell stories about the Lion king

And meet you after school and read

I will follow your progress to manhood if Im spared

And be there when you receive your degree

And toast your success in champagne

And organise a slap up meal at your favorite restaurant

You can invite your best friends a girl or two if you so desire.

I love you my son I love you