Don't Ever Wish the Time Away

Don’t Ever Wish the Time Away

When I was very little
I once said to my dad
I can’t wait until I’m grown-up;
A real big kid.

And my father turned to me
Gave me some odd advice for one so small
He said, “Don’t say that sweetie.
You’ll be a big kid in no time at all.”

When I was a little older,
Watched the adults on T.V.
I would often turn to my dad and say,
“Gosh, I wish that were me.”

And patiently he would explain,
“Being an adult is okay,
But don’t grow up too fast;
Have fun being a kid today.”

I was nine when I said to him,
“I can’t wait to drive a car;
Then I can see the world,
And travel near and far.”

And he shook his head wistfully
Both amused and sad.
And said, “You may not realize it,
But being a kid isn’t so bad.”

And later on in middle school
Those heartbreaking days of junior high
I’d often say with envy,
“I can’t wait for my happy ever after,
And meet the perfect guy.”

I thought it was no comfort
His words seemed so tough
When he said to me,
“Don’t worry now;
You’ll be married soon enough.”

And then my freshman year
The young ones again at school
I said, “I can’t wait until I’m a senior
And it’s my class’s time to rule.”

Once again he seemed so thoughtless
Dad didn’t help a bit
When he said, “Have fun now.
Enjoy your youth while you have it.”

All those years of childhood
Playing “house”; imitating grown-ups-
I never understood what my dad meant;
All I wanted was to be an adult.

But now I understand
I just hope it’s not too late
To finally appreciate what it means to be young
Only a week before I graduate.

And now Dad I thank you
And I finally comprehend
That you only have each day once
Appreciate every moment that you spend

Now as I sit here in my gown
I understand what you always meant
when you said, “Don’t ever wish the time away;
You’ll never have it back.”