Dad looks at me
different nowadays
or maybe I’m just now noticing
that longing gaze
aching with memories
that delight, that sting
hurting with regrets
pressing with determination
to be present now
and smile more
and laugh at the inconveniences
and grasp the bigger picture
treasuring the last half of those
grains of sand
he once told me
seem to fall much quicker than the first
half in the hourglass
He hugs me tightly and doesn’t let go
till he says, “Damn I miss you.”
and I know he means all of this,
his eyes and his hug
express it for him.
Dad Now
