Message to the Good Fathers

for the special fathers in my life, past and present, and all the good fathers out there


You are not a myth
as some adverse propaganda
would have us believe

And if your stories were told more often
If your songs were sung from the cities
to the country towns where you dwell

It would shake the foundation of this place
just right,

and

we just might be able to restore
law and order in our homes – first

Our sons and daughters would look to you
with the admiration and respect
you deserve

You are not a hope or a dream
as many of my women friends have sometimes
imagined

You are right here, walking among us
Laboring beside us
Contributing to our communities

And if your voices could be heard
above the noise of modern day confusion

We would stop, turn about,
take heed to the wisdom from the pages
of your years in the struggle

And give you back the love and honor
you deserve!

Bridgette Edwards © 2012