Papa

Did you know that we waited for you when it rained...our noses pressed firmly against the front window?

We watched for your car and listened for your footsteps, the booming voice that calmed the lightening and made us safe.

Did you know that small hands traced the pattern of your hair, etched into the worn leather headrest of your favorite chair?

Miniature feet practiced walking in your shoes...and we carefully placed them back afterwards, into the darkness of your closet.

Did you know back then, that your anger crushed us and that the cool smoothness of your belt on our skin made our throats taste bitter and hot? We cowered in the wake of your disppointment.

You were our very first dance partner... our feet carefully placed on top of your toes as we circled the living room... our eyes watching your every move.

Do you recall the feel of our hands in yours as we led you to early morning Christmas gifts, and small helpless winged birds, and crowns of dandelions?

Your arms held us high above the ground... safe from harm, and skinned knees, and bee stings. Your shoulders cushioned our sleeping heads.

Do you recall the moment, the day, the year.. when you walked beneath the weight of a load we did not understand and that you could no longer bear?