I remember being only 3 years old

And terrified of monsters under my bed.

You came into my room, larger than life

And told me I had no reason to worry my pretty head.

You took your sword and gave chase

To all the monsters in the town.

You forced them into the ocean

Where all of them surely drowned.

You refilled the ocean

With waters so pure and clean.

No monsters will ever again

Be heard from or seen.

You’ve been gone for so long now

Living above in the clouds.

I still think of you often.

Having you for my father made me so proud.

But now I have new monsters

Stalking me day and night.

Health problems, family drama, finances,

And I am too tired to fight.

I wish you were here

To chase them away, too.

Or maybe offer some fatherly advice,

Letting me know what to do.

I suppose at times all of us

Have our own demons to fight.

I am grateful for the weapons you gave me:

Knowledge, courage, support, and a special inner light.