In the shadows of your shoes
father, I tried to stand
as a young boy.
Wanting to mirror the tall
figure who had wisdom.
Desiring to get comfort inside
a foot hug so I could feel security.

I watched while the shoes were shined
to perfection, as they emulated greatness
from one who moved in them daily.

As I grew Fathers shadow grew
and I felt the heaviness of
his shoes in mind.

They became like bricks
hampering my movement.
They were weights
that made life difficult.

But I kept walking trying to steady
and catch your view of praise.

I never did and now
I am left with
an empty pair of shoes
and my own tears realizing...
I need only to walk in my own shoes.