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Untied Shoe Laces
"...and may you always protect us
and give us the strength we need
to make it through another day
and to live out your creed."
And in Jesus' name we pray,"
Hearing that let me know when
the prayer was over
so, together, we both said, "Amen"
You softly whispered, "I love you
and I don't want to hear a single peep."
as you kissed me on my forehead.
"Now be good and get some sleep."
I replied, "I promise I will"
as I said every night before.
Then I watched as you got up
and made your way to the door.
"No! Daddy! Wait!"
You were so quick to react.
"Sorry honey," you said
as you left the door cracked.
A soft light spilled in,
washing away fear and dread.
The fright of the dark
no longer surrounded my bed.
Still, I couldn't sleep.
Nor did I wish to do so
because in the morning
it would be time for me to go.
I never wanted to leave you
and I know you feel the same.
Neither of us wanted to depart;
I never held you to blame.
Even so, I couldn't help
but to sometimes feel bleek.
Why couldn't we be together
more than two days a week?
Mom is always happier on Friday.
It's written all over her face.
See? All 3 of us want this.
We all want me in this place.
And don't forget Ronnie, too.
He says that it's healthy
that I spend time with you
even though you're not as wealthy.
But, Daddy, I don't care
how much money you make.
I love you because you don't yell
when I don't mean to make a mistake.
You don't say I'm too loud
whenever I want to sing.
You wouldn't get mad when I can't
tie my own shoe string.
Don't worry though daddy,
Mom and Ronnie are great.
But still, all week long,
I can do nothing but wait,
Wait for the weekend to come.
The only time I'm truly alive
is when I have my stuff packed
and we begin our ritual drive.
So, don't send me home.
Let me stay here with you.
This is where I should live.
We could start over anew.
But I'm sure you're sleepy
just like I am... it's true.
So, I guess now I will say
goodnight and I love you too.
- September 1 / 2009
