Love You Father

That dawn she wakes up before her mother;

Putting the alarm to snooze, cuddles with her comfort doll

Delighted that it's her b'day the day after;

"Today dad will wish me because it's his holiday," she whispers.

Her calculations are flawless

With the Sun and the Moon as her guides;

The moment finally arrives and the phone rings;

"Happy b'day dear," her father wished.

She shrouds her quivering voice with giggles

She wished to ask why he worked so hard

Visited only twice a year, stayed so afar;

Or why he ate only toast and butter;

Why he wasn't with her for breakfast and supper.

"Festivals come, festivals go; why isn't he with us?

Isn't he missing my childhood?

Is working for me the meaning of Fatherhood?"

The words like pearls are at the corners of her whimpering lips,

But his disarming smile makes her pause,

"... I love you, father." She knew he was helpless.