Daddy, you look sad today Is it something that I said? Did I make you mad when I spilled the juice? I'm only being a kid. Daddy, please don't yell so loud The neighbors might hear again I promise I won't ask to play I'll just go to bed. Daddy, what's been wrong lately? Why are all those bottles there? Let's go outside and make you happy You don't even have to braid my hair. Daddy, why don't you say it anymore? You love me when I go to sleep? Can't I make it all better? I'm sorry mommy isn't with me. Daddy, what's that noise I hear? I hate to see you cry I'm running to save you, quick as I can I promise I will try! Daddy, what's that thing you have? The metal is black and cold I've seen that thing out on the streets It's a sad thing I have been told. Daddy, what was that loud noise? And why did you go to sleep? Why did you say I love you, goodbye? When in the morning you'll see me? And daddy, why won't you wake up? Please, stop lying there I'll try and carry you to bed As long as I don't stumble on the beer. Daddy, I wish you would wake up But I hear nothing from your heart It's just like mommy when we saw her Please, I don't wanna be apart! I'm sorry you weren't happy And you said it's not you, kid I want you to know you're always my dad And I love you no matter what you did.
While doing some work in South Dakota this previous week, I met a 12 year old girl who watched her father commit suicide in front of her. I am still heartbroken that at such a young age she has already been through so much. I'm hoping I helped give her a start to a better future and a glimpse of hope on the way.