To My Son...

You entered this world in 1982, Thirty hours from the opening act to grand entrance. Me, beside your mother in a silly gown, feigning calm amidst a sea of organized chaos. I held you first, a tiny pink grey form, screaming your announcement to the world. You cannot know the intense joy and pride in my heart, when I first laid eyes on you........my son! Saturdays were our days together. We explored the beach for pirate treasure, carefully hoarding jewels of surf polished glass. “Watch me dad!” as you climbed the playground slide. “Be carefull....”, as you plunge head first into the sand below. I give you comfort, clean sand from your hair. With pride I watch you climb the ladder yet again. Onward, upward, fly my eagle.....my son! Now you are a teenager, becoming a man of your own. Through you, I relive the joys and tragedies of youth. The blind obedience is absent. My advice is spurned. It hurts at first. But then, it was the same with my father and I. Our bond is loosening, you are pulling away. Patience, I console myself...he will come back. Sometimes a man and sometimes a child, you begin your journey. Remember, I am always here for you....my son! (c) Jim   Nov/96 Written November 1st, 1996 © on Nov 16 2001 02:01 PM PST   0 • 8