Poem: Can be
- wallacejnichols
- Nov. 15, 2006
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.
