A Father's Touch

By Tom Alexander Jr.

Son your mother may not tell you everything

Yes, her life will be no crystal stair, but  mine will be one that is obscured

Obscured by lies, brutality, misunderstanding, and judgment

Many will say I left because I was lazy and did not love you

They will fail to tell you that if I stayed I would not be able to support you

Many will say I was a brute who only wanted to abuse you

They will fail to tell you that my humanity is my greatest strong suit

Most see and misunderstand me, because they judge me before they get to know me

I am opening my heart and my hands to you, so you can see and feel me

I hope that this touch now, will help your misunderstanding  disappear later

Many will give you an impression that I am someone other than your Father

Son, like your mother I will never forget you

While she encourages you  to climb

I will be in the distance watching and ready to catch you if you fall

While she goes in dark places where there is no light

I remain in those places looking for a place to bring you life

Son, please know that when I am not there, I will be on my knees praying, crying, and pleading

Praying that God would forgive me and grant me an opportunity to be there for you

Crying from the depths of my soul each time you feel pain

Pleading that one day the truth be revealed to you about me

As I know your mother will help you get to the top

I know one day you will become a Father

You will touch your sons and your daughters hand

So I hope touching your hand now helps you become a better Father in the future