Father Calls A Thousand Times Poem by Joseph Oladehinde Ibikunle

FATHER calls a thousand times.
'Prepare me some chunks of Moi-moi*
and be careful not to cut your hand with knife.
Get me some hot water for bathing,
do not hurt yourself in the process.
.
Father calls a thousand times
'My daughter's gone out an hour ago;
I have to know her whereabouts.
Dial her phone number and be sure it rings;
ask her and be sure she's very safe.'
.
Father calls a thousand times.
Even when the issue is less than minor
'I haven't seen you outside recently;
I just need to be sure you're fine.
Be on your kneels and let me, for you, pray.
.
Father calls a thousand times.
In his calls, there's stress - there's relief;
in his calls, there's hope - there's joy.
His watchful attention gives me strength;
and his care, I know, is unequalled.
.
Father calls a thousand times.
I know I will miss this somehow
for I've found a love that's worth it.
As I leave for my matrimonial home,
I'll be meek and prayerful as you taught.

(Oladehinde Abimbola)