“I love you” you say
you’re who showed me how to play
“don’t forget to have some fun”
and off to the parks we’d run
you’ve always been here to hold my hand
and handled more than most could withstand
your big hugs have always been my favorite
you’ve proven your patience is unwavering
and you never gave up the fight
even on your most difficult nights
you always displayed empathy
Dad, I admire you endlessly
and lately I’ve been trying to process
pointless attempts to make it hurt less
because nothing can prepare you for the day
you stand and watch as your father slips away
I couldn’t have asked for a better dad
I’ll be forever grateful for all the time we had
the world is so much more lonely now
I’d do anything to still have you around
I knew the moment was near — “I love you,” I said
as your final tear fell to the hospital bed
I stared at the screen as your vitals dropped
1338 was the moment everything stopped
I woke up the next day to violent cries
I’m still not prepared to say goodbye
because never again will I hear you say
“hi sweet girl, what are you doing today?”
now I navigate the world without you
you taught me there’s nothing I can’t get through
I hope you’re finally resting comfortably
and know I love and miss you tremendously
