All my life
As a little growing lass
He tended, watched me,
Scolded and praised

He toiled,
Thought,
Fought
And succeeded
To rear me
Like the cub
Of a lion,
Brave,
Fearless
And expectant

Like the little
Dove; pure
Gentle
And blameless

Like the cat:
Playful,
Curious
And inquisitive.
He is my father,
And I was groomed
In his shadow