Time Won’t Heal This

It’s so hard to believe 10 years have gone by…
A whole decade without you, no more at my side.
My heart is quite heavy, so many times I still cry.
You missed giving me away on my day as a bride.

Your family has grown even though you’re not here,
with a son-in-law whose humor reminds me of yours.
I can imagine you two joking over a round of beer,
or in the stands, at a game, cheering as the crowd roars.

Your two grandkids are beautiful, sweet and smart.
Both are so full of life, laughter and love,
they have reminded me of you from the very start.
I know they are gifts you have sent us from above.

This legacy you have created lives on in those left behind.
You remain very much a part of my memories and my heart.
My emotions did not die with you; you’re never far from my mind
a love that is so powerful, even death cannot tear it apart.

Written in remembrance of my dad on the 10th anniversary of his death, 6/21/2011. Although life goes on, he is missed every day...and he always will be. I was 25 when he passed away. I hadn't met my husband yet and my brother's daughters had not been born yet either. If you'd like to read another poem about him, please go to "Daddy (original version)" . I wrote it shortly after he died. It was published in an anthology in 2001 and later re-printed in a newsletter in 2008.

Entered in the "TRADITIONAL POETRY CONTEST"  for June 2011. This poem won 3rd place. That really choked me up because it makes a special tribute to my dad even more special.

This poem received an Honorable Mention for "Best Medium Poem-Structured" in "The Quill Awards" .