I couldn't resist posting this, as I just rediscovered it in some belongs I was unpacking. My dad wrote it in 1987, when I was 3 years old, almost 4. I know it doesn't have the best rhyming in the world, but the point it makes it very awesome. In my mind, anyway.

For Both a Life Lesson

I sat and watched you,
tugging at your tricycle stuck between
the tree and the fence,

and smiled.

It wouldn't be long, before it came free,
Or you called out to me.
Soon, you stopped in frustration,
And climbed aboard anyway.
To make the best of the situation.

I smiled.

I knew you had accepted compromise,
instead of defeat.

Later on, I brought home a puppy
that you carried around by the neck,
But, it loved you any way.

I smiled.

Soon you learned which decision would make
The dog run and hide, or a friend for life.
This too, made me smile.
For people are the same way, too.

My tool box had many shiney things,
Some of which you thought were yours.
And you never suspected,
They were carefully selected, one by one.
No sharp edges.

You smiled.

I don't see how I can do anything outside anymore,
With out your help, and your little tools.
Which really makes me smile.

I still wait for your call,
When things get stuck
or the water hose gets a kink in it.
You learned a long time ago what dads are for,
Though you call less now than before,

I know.

Its called growing up.
And it takes us both.


-Tommy L. King
Copyright 1987

Wow, what an inspirational work of art.

Great job!