I had to write for you, love,
Because sometimes a father must
Hide the things that hurt you,
And your pure unflinching trust.
The gentle hugs, the softest laugh,
I take in all I can.
But now I must be honest, dear,
Your father's just a man.
I've loved and laughed, cried and hurt,
I've seen miracles come true,
But know this child, from all I've seen,
There's no miracle like you.
I'll always try to be there,
To be everything you need
I'll always fight beside you,
And for you gladly bleed.
But when the watchman comes,
And it's time to say goodbye,
Know this then, when I am gone -
You're the reason I'm alive.
This was written in a very dark time. The last two lines are pretty literal.