One of my dreams growing up
Was to end up being a father and a family man
When I heard you were on your way
Was one of the first wishes
I was ever granted

I missed most of your first year
Because I was overseas
Although not a day went by
Without you on my mind

I came home
And watched you grow
Your smile and laughter
Reminded me of the innocence
I had lost while I had been gone

I may have not been the perfect father to you
But you have been the perfect son
You taught me how to be patient again
How to love and let someone in
There were times when I felt
You were the only one that understood me
And you were just a little baby

When you came into the world
Everything became a little more scary
Reality and priorities changed
Because I had to protect you from the evils
You also gave me hope
That the world wasn't that bad off
Because it had people like you in it

You patted my back when I was sad
You told me, "Everything is going to be alright, Dad"
You meant it and I believed you

I call you "future man" all the time
But the truth is,
You are a better man than most I've met

I am here for you
Always and forever
I am trying to be the man
For you to emulate