I’ll never know the warmth of your skin as you lie on my chest

Or that determined look as you try your best.

I’ll never know the joy your smile would bring

Or how my heart would melt as you dance and sing.

I’ll never know the wonder of your formative years

Or the pain of watching you wipe away those tears.

I’ll never know how proud I’d stand

Each time you reached out to hold my hand.

I’ll never know the man you would have made of me

your loving Dad, that’s all I longed to be.

Yet all I know is the void that’s left

now you’ve taken your final breath.

Our time was brief but I’ll never forget.

Paul Gradwell