Poem: Can be

I wrote these few sparse words down in the form of a rough poem shortly after meeting my biological father for the first time some years ago.  This week he visited me in California for the first time and we’ve exhausted ourselves trying to share a lifetime of stories.

I really like him.  I think he’s a great man.  He’s calm, intelligent and empathetic.  He’s a quiet hero.  And I’m proud of him and what he’s done for others as he’s lived his life fully.  I didn’t know that I felt that way until now.

I’m fortunate that I have two exceptional fathers (and mothers!).  They’ve each given me something, their gifts, and I try to make the most of them each day.  And there’s no way I can express my gratitude adequately.

Can be

A father can be

The man who gives

A copy of

His code

To your mother’s egg

On one night

Of his life.

Or a father can be

The man who gives

All of

His heart

To your soul

On every morning

Of your life.

I wish it were

That simple.

(about the poems)