Smiling at You

Dear Daddy,

Twenty years have come and gone

Since our last farewells.

But not a single day goes by

That I don’t smile at your silly tales.

“It eats right where you hold it” comes to mind

Each time I look at food on my plate,

Or perhaps when I am asked how I like it

Your words “I like it” require no other reason to rate.

From the ice cream cone with a tunnel

To the town named after a nickel

Your wit and humor encouraged a young boy

To think, mature and perhaps to be like you a little.

You chanced to escort Liz to the restroom that day

And never discolored the moment.

Nor did you embellish sitting in the governor’s chair

Or how your time as an honor guard was spent.

You’ve been with the Heavenly hosts

Continuing to share your laughter,

And I have no doubt they are the ones who are blessed

From hearing your quips and tales in the hereafter.

I’ve been on each side of this life’s offerings

And feel I have done my best.

I hope you can say you’re proud of me

And have passed most of the test.

I look forward to the moment of our next hug

And a chance to catch up,

But until that time, I’ll keep uttering a few of your witty words

and keep that ice cream in a cup.

Sincerely,

Me