Father Reply Poem by maria goodison

My daughter how you've come in to your own and as
you sit across from me, all the words I had to say
now fade and go away.
Your green hazel eyes screaming out to me a empty
sorrow feeling make it way across the table.
Your mother begs you to stay and I hear the take in
of your breath, I swear my hart skips and my face drains.
It would be easy for me to say I didn't get your letters
and try my best to phone but I keep forgetting your
number.
You've grown in to a fine young woman and I can see your
bright and understand that things are never black or white.
I know I was not a father and would never ask you to
call me one, but in all the wrong that I have done I do believe
you were better off not having me around.
I drank to much, always in a fight and the police new me
by first name.
I lost count how many time I cheated on your mother, and then
to make things hurt I ran away with her sister.
Your angry and yes I see you want to punch me but I'm still
with in my right to say I'm here now, ready to be your
Father.
To much to soon I can see the tears raining down your face
and a small part of me want to give you a hug, tell you it's
ok and I'll do my best to make it right.