Almost  a Father

No legal ties to bind us,no shared blood in our veins.

Yet I call you father,in many many ways.

If soothing words can dry a tear,and love can ease the way.

When difficult times assault,I know you’ll always stay.

You’ve helped me travel down a path of unfamiliar roads.

So many lessons I have learned ,by stories you have told.

During fearful times you’ve held my hand and told me I am strong.

You’ve shared my joy,and pain alike and gladly came along.

So richly blessed is how I feel,I’ve had you by my side.

My gratitude is not enough,It’s something I can’t hide.

As time goes on, and life slows down,and one day you are gone.

I’ll think of all the ways you’ve helped me and I’ll carry on.