by Frankie Barrios

Created on: March 12, 2009   Last Updated: March 14, 2009

My Dad

So loved and admired;

there for me to count on

in times of adversity.

Respectful and supportive,

although not always in agreement

with all that I do.

Oh, we are so close,

yet we are oceans apart;

that logistical chasm between us

literally breaks my heart.

Time is ticking on.

How loud that tick can be.

So loved, yet so stubborn;

I can only pray,

time will not run out

before that chasm narrows and

some time is spent with me.

That surely would be a loss

I have no wish to bear.

It was I, the instigator,

that caused this distance between us;

forever will I be responsible, filled with regret.

Do not deprive those who love you,

nor those that you love;

look to your wife of 60+ years.

Stop being so obstinate!

Dispel the pride;

stare hard at the reality.

Trade in those excuses

for actions from the heart.

Time and again you afford me strength,

now accept my helping hand.

All of us together,

sharing what time is left,

tackling the encumbrances while

enjoying the pleasures of life.

There is no need to persist

in carrying the increasing load alone.

I am there for you, as you are for me.

The burden will be lighter,

the joy more abundant.

This is what I want to do,

what you must allow me to do,

to exemplify the deep love and respect

I have for you.

Learn more about this author, Frankie Barrios.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.