Dear Dad,
This might be selfish and stupid
This might go out with the trash
But there is so many things unsaid
So many things not discussed.

I love you, you know I do.
But sometimes we collide like meteorites
We come from different angles
And it sometimes hurts to hit you
That does not make you less of a dad than any other.

I love you, you know I do.
You were an alcoholic, I do not care.
You fight it every day, I care.
You never told us why or how or who, I care.

Nonetheless, dad, you came back to us.
This is how I know you love me.
This is why I love you more after, but I also did during.
I never stopped; you are my dad. The best dad ever.

You are strong. Maybe you cannot be there to save me all the time, but you saved you and that is all the proof I need. You are the strongest dad in the universe and you can fix anything from broken dreams to a flat tire. I would trust you with my life over and over.

I hate that you never talk about your youth, it makes your parents seem so extra dead. I hate that your dad died early because I want you around for a lifetime or more, bickering with mum and slapping her knee in the car. I’d just prefer it if nobody died but we cannot change that.

I love you, dad, and I miss seeing you and your weird interaction with us all every day because it suits you so very well. I’ve missed it all ever since I’ve moved out.

Love,
Your daughter.