The Teachings of a Father

The teachings of a father.

Never before have I left school feeling, like my eyes would start searing.

From tears of gratitude and joy, from the words that could not have been a ploy.

"I know you'll be a good father", I haven't ever really given thought to the bother.

"Bother", is definitely the wrong word though to describe being a father.

While I had thought, once a long time ago how; to do so would have to be bought.

Through the trials of adoption, I now know that that may be my only option.

But I know that when I do that I won't be stuffy, I will adopt the most troubled child even the ones who are fluffy.

I will show them there is beauty in everyone and everything, and that those people and things all have a story to sing.

Some are soiled, some are spoiled.

Some are troubled, some have pain that's been doubled.

Some are crippled, yet their love is tripled.

Some are quiet, and people say they're half-witted, but don't buy it.

Some are loud, and still others are constantly cowed.

But all of them just want to be loved and appreciated, fed and nourished so they're no longer emaciated.

This is what I’ll teach my kids, something hopefully that last long enough to teach their own kids.