Are you there?

Are you there?

You were always there otherwise,

even when we didn't think we needed

you, could always look out

to the field, on the tractor, or on

the couch about to nod off, or in the basement playing your music.

You were there, always.

Are you there?

When you passed away, we couldn't

find you, in the hospital you left us

with a last knowing smile and now...

Are you there?

We miss you, want touch you and

share our silly lives and smile

with you again, hear your laughter

that nearly has you folded over

and teary eyed, our stomachs

hurting, our smile muscles sore.

Are you there?

The sound of your voice, not many

words, but strong, resonant;

we are safe with your "uufda" and

your "whoo?" and your "wellllll"

Are you there, dad?

We are...