Growing up my father taught me to love myself
Through thick and thin
As long as I could find love within myself
I would be okay

He taught me to stand up for myself
Taught me that sometimes I’d have to be both
the damsel in distress
And the hero

I was raised gently
My head is filled with memories of laughter
Summer evenings outside on the swing set he built me
Weekend mornings filled with princess crowns
He allowed my mind to roam wherever it found inspiration

And as I grew he grew with me
We learned how to face life together
I never had to deal with a problem alone
And even when I decided to
I knew he would always be there
To catch me if I needed him

My father has always been an angel
I’m blessed to know unwavering love
My childhood was filled with warm smiles and soft embraces
Even in adulthood I’ve never known anything short of respect
And care that knows no bounds

Thanks to my father I’ll know how to love my children gently
When the time comes for me to be a mother I know I’ll be ready
Because my father taught me best
And I hope to show my children love
The same way my father has always shown me