What does it take to be a Dad,
There are no manuals to be had.
Raising a child to be more than you,
Teaching them by what you have went through.
Taking them by the hand through thick and thin,
Giving them the strength to jump right in.
Learning by your own life – trial and error,
Hoping not to relive the terror.
Watching them grow up to be their own,
Hoping they will at least call on the phone.
Seeing yourself in their eyes,
Hoping they never believe the lies.
Ups and downs – wisdom learned,
That everything in this life is earned.
The hugs at day and kisses by night,
Knowing that every step is worth the fight.
Succeeding in school,
To be no ones fool.
Wanting them to be just who they are,
Hoping they will go far.
But never wanting them to leave your arms,

And not fall to this world’s charms.