The moment I stepped from the vehicle, tears filled my eyes. "Be strong" I told myself, knowing the fear, anger, hurt, were all obviously written on my face. I had to face him, once and for all, speak the words to my father that I had wanted to all of my life, but only now had the chance too. I knew only that no matter what I said, it wouldn't change anything, but I had to try. I found him instantly, and at first, I couldn't sit beside him, I could only stand, nervously flipping my thumbs across the palms of my hands. Slowly I spoke, looking around to make sure we would be alone. I tried to use the eloquence of a poet, but the words were childlike and awkward. The more I spoke, the easier it became, until eventually I realized that the weight I'd carried on my heart, eased with every confession, all of the secrets were being revealed moment by moment, word by word. I was there with him for hours, tears came, but I held all control. Then, once I'd said all I felt I needed to, by this time I was sitting right next to him, I got up, kissed my hand, and touched his grave. I said I love you and I left, knowing everything would be ok.

Learn more about this author, Valerie Daniels.
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