As BOY becomes MAN

AND BOY BECOMES MAN…

I watch you as you sleep.

I see my baby that I held in my arms…

the boy

who smiled and smiled,

who sat on my shoulders

and hugged my head.

I see the boy who has always been

So full of questions,

So deep in thought.

The boy who always wanted adventure,

But who was always cautious walking up to it.

I see the love in your sleeping eyes –

The love of life and dreams.

But, your hands are large and strong,

And your shoulders broad.

The leather bracelet somehow

Denotes some type of departure

From days gone by.

There is peace and naivete in your face,

There is curiosity and wonder.

We are in this exciting and dangerous time,

Where you are no longer a boy,

And still not yet a man…

My love for you is endless.

And, I feel your love in return.

I have made so many mistakes,

And I want desperately to help you

Avoid making your own.

And, I know… that is my own naivete as a father.

I see you son…

I see your smile hidden behind your thoughtful eyes

I see your heart…

For me it’s about letting go,

For you it’s about leaping off…

While I can’t hold you in my arms,

I can hold you in my heart.

While I watch you leap and fly…