Remembering on Father's Day

in the beginning

I remember riding on your shoulders at the Bronx Zoo. 

I remember running and jumping into your arms when you came home at night.

I remember feeling special.

in the end

Telling and retelling stories, drifting in and out of decades and continents. 

Often unsure of who I was, yet always the gentleman, always gracious, always charming. 

It was sometimes hard to breathe

watching you disappear before my eyes

Although you didn't remember my name, 

you remembered I was someone special.

Although you didn't remember your grandchildren, 

you knew they were beautiful and sweet, 

and they were precious to you. 

Although they said hours, you held on 

for days, and days  

refusing to leave us 

I love you, Daddy

Happy Father's Day