For My Sons and Daughters Whose Father Went Away

Today is my son's birthday. He was a great kid and is a good man. Today I was thinking about the absence of fathers and wondering if there were some way to offer another explanation of why fathers leave. One that places no blame, one that relieves pain, one that absolves shame and explains-why fathers leave....

A Father's Calling
by Oye'

I think perhaps
it may very well be so.
A father's calling
is sometimes to go.

To make his small offering
to your miraculous start
then to leave mother alone
to nurture your heart.

His voyage may take him
to parts unknown
or douse him in drink or
another woman's home.

His scent you may have caught
from reminences told.
His trail may be blocked
by her love grown cold
.
Yes, I think perhaps
it may very well be so
A father's calling
is sometimes to go.

The why may not be
what you've always thought.
nor even what you've been
repeatedly told.

It is not your lack of goodness
whether or not you are smart
nor were or are you
a burdensome load.

Your father has done
the best that he could do.
When he lay with your mother
and they brought forth you.

I think perhaps
it may very well be so.
A father's calling
is sometimes to go.

Yes, I think, and so
perhaps it is true.
The best of your father
has been given to you.

With Love, Oye
August 17th 2013