Dad, my Touchstone for life,

ready with an encouraging word.

Today I need him more than ever,

the one who always understood.

When my brand new puppy ran away,

Dad drove all over to bring her home.

I hugged her tight with tears of joy,

Blondie, white spaniel my very own.

Every night he tucked me into bed, 

told funny stories, face lit up with a grin.

He taught me to read and play chess,

I am who I am because of him.

I fell out of a tree right on my head,

my friend called Dad, he ran all the way.

Carried home in his strong arms I rested,

as he watched over me the entire day.

Dad taught me to ride a bike and drive a car,

knowing the value of learning life skills.

Camping trips, fun at the beach, drive-in movies,

best childhood memories alive for me still.

I miss Dad, my Touchstone for life,

his ready smile, quiet strength, gentle spirit.

Remembering his simple words of wisdom,

Things always have a way of working out.

Even though his words ring true today,

I want to hold his hand as I face this storm.

But I’ll have to close my eyes to hear him say,

Kiddo, don’t worry you’ll be okay.