Outside My Shadow (Happy Birthday Angie At 14)
by Michael Doyle

Has it been a life
Or some kind of a dream
It's hard to believe
That you're turning fourteen

14 years ago tomorrow
You first opened your eyes
Taking away my sorrow
And bringing a million surprises

They say you came a bit early
But who can really know these things
All I know is the joy that you've brought me
And the happiness that each day brings

At the joy of being your father
And at you and your sister being my daughters
I might have been richer but I'll never be poor
When you hold my hand, I couldn't ask for more

Here you are standing by my side
Growing into quite a young lady
All of your ways bringing me pride
As they have since you were but a baby

I still remember that day you turned
On the ultrasound to my side to say hello
And I see your brilliance in all you've learned
Blossoming as you from outside my shadow

It's hard to realize you must be your own 
Instead of always under my overwhelming impression
I need to trust in you as you are nearly grown
This happy father treasures you and makes concession

That you are growing into the one of life's best
Treasured as you are with every beat of my heart
And I know your resilience will always pass the test
As you have from the very start

I still remember that day you turned
On the ultrasound to my side to say hello
And I see your brilliance in all you've learned
Blossoming as you have from outside my shadow

(c) August 1, 2021  Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved