Father

By: Malik Flemming

Look me in the eyes boy Listen to me

Doubt many things—for that is a sign of wisdom—but doubt not the love I have for you I say this not as a means of submission
Think not that you owe me
for I have taken this duty willingly

And every day as sure as the sun rises I take it
As sure as you frustrate your mother and I, I take it As sure as you will succeed and fail
laugh or cry, I take it

Bringing you into the world was the greatest choice I’ve ever made Seconded only by the continuous decision to love you for the rest of my days

So don’t hide yourself from me
Never abridge your character
That I may die not knowing the truth of the man I sired

It is not my wont for you to succeed me in anything
I am no benchmark for you to strive towards
My hope is for you to be content and hale, competent in whatever your craft

So no more lies or falsehoods
I am no one you should fear nor loathe
I am your flesh and blood, just as you are mine own Trust in that