A very good friend of my Bill Dahmer, who really marked me as a young man – taught me how to cook doughnuts at home, which I have tried several times, Bill, they do not taste like yours at all – had this poem on his Facebook wall the other day. You see Bill is watching the life of his mother, come sooner and sooner every day. He shared this poem with the passion of a son for his parents, as He is learning to say Good Bye…
“To My Grown-Up Son” by Alice E. Chase
My hands were busy through the day; I didn’t have much time to play,
The little games you asked me to, I didn’t have much time for you.
I’d wash your clothes; I’d sew and cook, but when you’d bring your picture book.
And ask me, please, to share your fun, I’d say, “A little later, son.”
I’d tuck you in all safe at night, and hear your prayers, turn out the light,
Then tiptoe softly to the door, I wish I’d stayed a minute more.
For life is short, and years rush past, a little boy grows up so fast,
No longer is he at your side, His precious secrets to confide.
The picture books are put away; there are no children’s games to play,
No goodnight kiss, no prayers to hear, that all belongs to yesteryear.
My hands once busy, now lie still, the days are long and hard to fill,
I wish I might go back and do, the little things you asked me to.
I know that I have lived this poem out way too many times. Please forgive me of the times that I didn’t and the times I wasn’t. Please know that I love you and I am a very grateful dad to have you in my life as my kids! Though I have let you down a time or two or three, know that your Heavenly Father will never leave you or forsake, not to mention – let you down!
To Isaiah and Ian, and my sweet little girl Bella – I want you to know how much I love you this Father’s Day! The greatest gift you bring me is the joy that you put in my eye as I watch you learn and grow, not to be like your earthly dad, but reflections of your Heavenly Father!
Remember what Prov. 4:1-4 says, “My children,listen when your father corrects you. Pay attention and learn good judgment, 2 for I am giving you good guidance. Don’t turn away from my instructions. 3 For I, too, was once my father’s son, tenderly loved as my mother’s only child. 4 My father taught me, “Take my words to heart. Follow my commands, and you will live.” Keep following our Heavenly Father; He will never let you go!
Happy Father’s Day!