My Father's Daughter

Hello dad
I know
It's been a long time
Since our last conversation
In 1998.

The night before
Your fatal heart attack
Ending your pain
Mercifully.

There is
Only one regret
Which I have
Not being able to tell you
You have a daughter
And a son.

Not two sons
As you and mom
Believed for so long.

For you see
Dad
I knew about my true self
But was scared
To tell you and mom
When I was
A young child.

Although
The outer facade
May change
I am still
Your child.

Who loved and cherished
Every moment
Spent in your protective arms
Teaching me
A deep and reverence love
For books and ideas.

Your final words
Will forever be etched
Into my memory
Of you saying
“ I love you”
Over the telephone
As I do you
Dad.

Author's Note

Written November 6, 2010.