Stay Strong

I miss those times
When you’d put me to bed
You’d say good night
And kiss me on the top of my head

I remember that night
Of you in your hospital bed
A mere memory
Bound tight to my chest

You smiled at me
And said, “You should go home and rest”
I hugged you tightly, saying
“I love you Daddy, you’re the best.”

When the next day came
We went to visit
The doctors said
“He might not make it.”

I denied it
Saying, “You’re lying.
Tell them Daddy,
Make Mommy stop crying.”

He lay there silently
Taking deep breaths
I stood next to him
And held his hand

“Stay strong Daddy,
And fight it.
Don't leave me alone Daddy,
You have to survive it."