When dads were around

there was strength and trust

and certainty

 

there would be food on the table

and a roof over our heads

 

then dads went away

through divorce

or abandonment

and kids were left

with only one parent

 

one parent who

was not there most of the time

because they had to work

and do all the things the father

used to do

 

so kids were left

without guidance

without authority

without a Father's love

 

so on this day

let us honor the Dad's

that stuck around

that stuck it out

that sacrificed for family

 

they kept their word

they kept their promise

they were warriors

in their own quiet way

 

not outspoken

but setting the example

of what a man should be.