To the fathers who walk backwards with their thumbs up
because it’s a choice of bread or transport, thank you.
To the fathers who bore through the depths of their shadows
when their spirits are not forthcoming, thank you.
To the fathers who hide their burning fears,
while making good on promises, thank you.
To the fathers who endure slander of their character
and show up in spite of shipwrecked relationships, thank you.
To the fathers who trade off days so they can be present at rehearsals,
recitals, matches and ballet, thank you.
To the fathers who wish they could be there,
but cannot because circumstances make it impossible, thank you.
To the fathers who’ve struggled to show to their love
yet have made the choice after so many years to be vulnerable, thank you.
To the fathers who’ve asked for another chance after messing up,
who are prepared to accept whatever the response, thank you.
To the fathers lying suffering and immobile in hospital beds,
questioning their benefit, their very sense of self.
Your children need you no matter what.
That they get to hold your hand in silence, is the beat of their hearts.
To the fathers struggling with addiction,
who bury themselves day after day in the hell of oblivion,
Your children are looking for you, not some fictional superhero.
Happy Fathers’ Day to all fathers and father figures,
We cannot do this life without you.
Bernadette Richards is from Cape Town. She writes bits and bobs, including songs, and appreciates diverse forms of art.