FOREVER

FOREVER

I dream of you calling my name

I run to you and you lift me on to your shoulders

How safe I felt then and in charge of the world.

"I can see forever, Daddy.."

"Forever's a very long way..'

"I know and I can see it, way over there.."

I run beside you struggling to keep up

while you laugh and take one long stride 

to my many short ones.

You pick me up when I fall over

brush me off and send me on my way.

You teach me how to bait a hook and land a fish

yet you never did persuade me to clean one

though I was quite happy to fillet and cook.

You show me how to make scones,

and pluck a poor chicken ..

Much later you look me out for driving lessons

and told me you thought I did very well 

getting through that busy intersection..

and were horrified when I said it was easy.. 

with my eyes closed..

till I burst out laughing. 

You soon warmed to my long term boyfriend

and you became great mates after we were married.

You loved our children and grandchildren

without reservation, 

though saddened that Mum missed them..

You were always the first to offer a hand when needed

you taught us all so much..

in particular, the love of family.

Though you stayed with us longer than most

it could never be enough.

We miss you Dad, two years seems like forever

but we thank you for the legacy you left behind,

our memories wrapped in your love.

(c)Crissouli Oct 18, 2016

Image (c)Crissouli 2007