My daddy and me were like strangers.
We never did much get along.
We saw things from different perspectives,
Each convinced that the other was wrong.
He spent most his nights in a bottle,
And most of his days filled with doubt.
Then we came to blows late one evening.
So I packed my clothes and moved out.
Sometimes I’d come home to see Momma,
And I’d ask how Daddy had been.
Then she’d shake her head in frustration
And say he’d been drinking again.
I told her that I didn’t get it.
How could she put up with that man?
She said she had something to tell me,
And maybe then I’d understand.
Love overcomes every problem.
Love helps forgive every wrong.
Love helps you care when hardships are there.
Love helps a weak heart be strong,
And son, I’ve done loved him too long.
I thought about what Momma told me.
Then I decided to make some amends.
So I went and I talked to Daddy,
And asked him if we could be friends.
He stood and put his arms around me
And said son, I just want you to know,
I’m sorry that I ever hurt you,
And I love you too much to let go.
Then he went and poured out his bottle
And threw it away with a groan.
Then he turned and said I’ll need your help, son,
Because I can’t make it alone.
April 15, 1995
© 2013, Steven R. Drennon. All rights reserved.