Honorable Mention

Looking back, I recall you looking on,
to that girl you were raising
that day and beyond.

Me, absorbing spirit & strength I knew not how to see
Now wholly set free
by that grown in me.

There was never indulgence of "daddy's girl" myth.
Instead was forged firm
the mind's depth, breadth & width.

I was never taught the most "feminine wiles"
and the lack of such lessons
has commissioned me miles.

I was fed books, music, dandelion-wine, life
not, the trappings
of what makes a "good wife".

Through chess & church & 2-point conversions
merged an intellect grounded
in thoughtful immersion.

My childhood was spared the most evil of thought
being taught "what to be",
instead of what naught.

Be not utmost obsessed with material gain
Let not your existence
be others' bane.

Find that which calls to your heart & your mind,
seek truth in challenges,
both cruel & kind.

You can't return the sharp words, or then-withheld warmth.
Yet you spoke with conviction
and stood by that you held forth.

I love you father, in the most painful of ways
as a buffer, reminder
guard of my days.

The sentinel of soul posted my life throughout
makes for intrepid progress
in the navigation about.

The shadow of conscience that falls from my life
is the substance and form carved sharp by your knife.

But I know for you've shown, integrity full-measure
and the sweat of long days
gleans time as a tresure.

I am now past the crux that begs grace & salvation
I am the woman borne of the girl of your making.

Looking back to the girl you have raised,
I'm humbled past words
or sentiments well-phrased.

I can never repay the gifts of respect & attention,
except to say "thank you"
and give you honorable mention.