For Dad

You have always been there for me
through the toughest times in my life
you gave me away on my wedding day
reluctantly sending me on my way to become a wife

You have always dried away bitter tears
and tried to soothe away my greatest fears
you are my pillar of strength
and have helped to go from length to length

You are everything a Dad should be and more
and for me and mine, you have always opened you door
your gentle nature and wise words
have guided me on my path throughout all these years

Now you have a new demon to fight
one that may well cost you your life
the pain I feel at the thought of losing you
is more than I can bare, this I cannot do

I am not ready to say goodbye
there is so much still left unsaid
as I put these words to paper
I feel so many thoughts running through my head

Yet this I do know, you are a survivor
your sheer determination, your admirable drive
your strength of character and will to constantly strive
your ability to always see the good in other

Its for all these things and so many more
that you are my guiding light and hero
I love you Daddy, and always will
Always and forever