Sunday Night Poetry
My heart aches; pain lingers, those I cherish, kept at bay,
What seems like eternity, I won't turn from my duties' way.
You left me wondering what was wrong, though I knew all along.
Torn between two parents, your love's a river's current—strong,
People pull you in both directions, but a parent's love isn't a choice,
We can love you, and you can love us, let's unite and rejoice.
The old life between us has changed, but our love remains evermore,
Build bridges and fortify what binds us, let God's plan restore us.
I treasure my children beyond measure, no other choice in sight,
Let's move ahead, counting our blessings, in each other's light.
I'm here for you, imperfect yet sincere, to all my children, that's clear,
You're loved, not just by me, but by others who hold you dear.
I long for you daily, your absence aches and my heart grieves,
I am sure you want me back too, for our love never leaves.
We both seek what's best, let's not pretend or deny,
Set aside the past, let forgiveness and love amplify.
Despite the past when things seemed ok, something was wrong,
It lingered, but like most lies, it was soon to be discovered.
As your father, I make this choice with all my might,
To be the best Dad, love you unconditionally, day and night.
You can choose too, accept my outstretched hand,
Or turn away, and let pain's hold on you expand.
I'll keep reaching out, until you understand,
The depth of love and forgiveness, hand in hand.
You were just a child, it's not your fault, I know,
Come home soon, let love and healing flow.
For more on this author on Twitter. @BrentBowlby
The powerful love and anguish of a parent beautifully expressed. Thank you so much for sharing your heart with us. I join you in prayer for your son and all of our families.
Dear Dad, thank you for your beautiful poem. Your love and your pain is palpable.
You express those feelings so clearly, and your poetry has helped me feel less alone in my grief.
My 58-year-old child is complicit in keeping our family alienated. With his mental illness and with theirs, my bewitched grandchildren continue to ostracize me, taking my great grandchildren with them. The issue is multi-generational, but what would I do if any of them suddenly decided to include me in their lives once again? I, who still love them with all my heart, and who helped raise them, how could I bear to see my beloved grandchildren living such a sick lie and raising their children in a sickening lie?
I do not know how I would be able to handle it.
I have to remember; this is what my Lord has saved me from. And I do remember, most of the time. His peace sustains me. Jesus centers me, once more.
Dear Dad, I pray that your child sees the truth and returns to you. Keep loving your child as only you can and, please, stay grounded in reality. Reality will win, in the end. Thank you.
Love, Indio