His hair, a statement of defiance,
now pulled back
out of reach of tiny hands.

Where an eyebrow stud once challenged,
his face has smoothed,
a welcoming spot
for her soft head.

His closet – a living advertisement
for Michael Jordan and Nike,
now overflows,
not with shoes,
but with diapers,
and a stroller,
and teddy bears.

Nights filled with parties and clubs
convert to playing peek-a-boo
on the floor,
his attention focused
on tiny toes and fingers,
on coos and smiles.

He is in love,
not only with the woman
who shares his bed,
but with the child
they created.

The years of rebellious seeking
led him to find his heart
in home and family.

From boy to man to father to Dad.

I see my father in the eyes of my son
and I am blessed.