Honor Thy Father

If I had obeyed you, Dad,

I would have practiced the violin
every day,
And learned patience;
and, now,
I’d be a virtuoso.

I would not have
stolen
and eaten
your hidden treats and snacks,
And learned unselfishness;
and, now,
I’d look no further than where my eyes fall–to a full heart,
always fulfilled.

I would have kept our living space
clean and clear,
Every day,
And seen through your eyes,
Appreciation,
And heard through your words,
Praise,
And felt through your expression,
good temper;
And, now,
I’d be free
from anger and hatred.

I would have listened to
and heeded
your stories and advice,
And learned from trust and wisdom,
Acceptance–
Love, free from judgment;
And, now,
I’d have advocacy and support
as my constant companions

I would have loved classical music,
and heard the music of the spheres,
And the silence,
As universal communication,
And, now,
I’d hold you,
In the sounds of the living.

I would have loved you,
and your manhood,
And learned the Golden Rule,
True relationship,
And, now,
I’d embrace and serve
all humanity.

~ Karen Joyce Lloyd