Fatherhood

Son Tate and Daughter Aris

A special gift lies on the wind

for each man who dares the blunder

Then rolls the dice to pay the price

to both touch and feel this wonder

 

As then one finds the reason why

that has thus far been so hidden

Endless the loads that walk life’s roads

with the fear that was unbidden

 

Therein lies the conundrum

which we know our hearts to command

Now it will be for us to see

how well the ship of life be manned

 

Our lives have no greater calling

then to comfort a poor child’s tears

Truth shows clearer through the mirror

for he who shares these hopes and fears

 

But oh the sounds of fatherhood

how narre they touch to the heart

Laughter and tears pour from the years

for each of us who play his part

 

Author's Note

Life doesn't reveal the secrets of the heart until you look in the eyes of your own child!
One thing I can say about children is that no one can take them from you. If you raise them in love they will be the things of beauty by which you judge yourself and find you're not wanting. Happy Fathers Day all!

Reviews

[Tommy]

I have yet to experience this wonderful wonder; but I see how my brother stands stead for his family. The worries he is starting to show around his eyes as his two girls grow, and his son is growing in his wives belly. For he knows it is up to him to raise these children; he works so hard to give them it all, from working from light till dark, to playing with dolls. He is a wonderful father! I then look in my father's eyes as he sees how my brother lives for his family, and I can see his pride shining through. I hope to someday feel this joy, like you said, "Our lives have no greater calling."

Fine Write my friend!
RLG,
Tommy

[msharma]

Great attempt .Powerful vocabulary used. Reminded me of the saying of Wordsworth......"Child is the father of Man"

[Crowley]

Greatest thing ever given to a man.....can't believe how fast they grow. Great writing Tate, loved this.

[Undying Glory]

this was so heartfelt and touching, i really enjoyed this awesome write!
"Our lives have no greater calling
then to comfort a poor child’s tears
Truth shows clearer through the mirror
for he who shares these hopes and fears

But oh the sounds of fatherhood
how narre they touch to the heart
Laughter and tears pour from the years
for each of us who play his part"
such beautiful words!

[Chloe..Across the Unive..]

Your author's note is so true.
Your poem is full of love .. good advice and heartfelt emotion.
Beautiful.

[Jeffrey Gershom]

You have a wonderful way with words, with emotions that makes one to have to stop and think...reflect. I have never been a father. For some unknown reason, God has denied me this gift. So ended my 1st marriage after 10 years. I guess my doctors were wrong when they told me I could. Well, that's what you get for listening to military doctors.
Anyway, this poem of yours at least let me feel in some remote way, the joys of fatherhood.
Thanks for sharing!
-Jeffrey

[Theodore]

another great one that I can't relate to yet keep the good writing up.

[Brianna Brie]

Very nicely written! I agree about the importance of having children.. They are a window into our own souls.

[Lilly]

Another beautiful poem Tate. I like what this poem says and also the comment you've made in your artist's statement.

You touch on many aspects of being a parent - the importance of teaching, supporting, guiding, loving your child - though at times struggles or challenges may present themselves - they can be worked through - they shrink in the light of the many joys and wonders of being a parent

and as you say in the opening lines- it is a 'special gift'... if only more fathers realized this...

So many lovely lines written in this poem-
"Now it will be for us to see
how well the ship of life be manned"

"Our lives have no greater calling
then to comfort a poor child’s tears"

"Laughter and tears pour from the years
for each of us who play his part"

All incredible lines with so much meaning and feeling in them - I couldn't pick just one...
Again, a beautiful and powerful poem. Thank you for sharing it.

[Magdelena]

Amen!! I remember the first time I looked into the eyes of my first daughter, and each one after that. I was lost! In heaven and my heart soared with such a sense of love and peace that none other ever came close. This was absolutely beautiful my friend. As only u can do!

Mags xx