Concerning Fatherhood

I want to raise this child

and fill him up with hope.

I want to shelter him from pain

and ensure that he grows old.

I’ll bequeath him all my goodness, 

if I have to tear it off my soul,

and steal his mother’s wit

so that he’s always in control.

I will hide him from my anger,

never let it show,

so he may never come to see

his reflection in its glow.

And when he is a better man

who sees all that I am,

I hope that he will also feel

I’ve done all that I can.

This world is not a happy place.

It’s not innately sad.

This world can give you treasures

or it can take all that you have.

I fear I’ll make a soldier.

I fear I’ll make a priest.

I hope to raise a KING

who’s not afraid to share the feast.

I hope he will see brothers.

I hope he will see friends.

I hope that he speaks freely 

and isn’t scared to make amends.

But most of all, I hope he’s loved

and that he’s happy with his lot.

Exactly aware of who he is

and unconcerned with what he’s not.

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

Wonderful sentiment expressed in this piece for your little son. I found it moving. I felt the love here and hopes for his future. Wanting the best for him, but most of all wishing him happiness and contentment with his lot and that he is blessed with love in his life. Thank you for posting.

Chris