What She Doesn't Know Yet
by Michael Doyle

Listening to my daughters proudly
As they talk a bit too loudly
Each holding her own in conversation
Each of them has their own ambitions

My babies have grown up without regret
But I wish each would kindly not forget
They have yet quite a lot still to learn
Lessons that will come, each well-earned

As their father, each of them is a blessing
I know that I'll soon be empty-nesting
But watching each of them blossom and grow
I only wish that it might go more slow

I've held each of them dear from the start
And I know I will miss them when we're apart
I can only hope they know they'll be in my heart
On the last breath when from this earth, I depart

I smile inside at each of life's heartbreaks
My hope is there have been no irrevocable mistakes
Each of them has brought me a little angel-shine
But I know that the best has only been borrowed time

There among the falling stars is the memory
Of how beautiful it has been to have a family
While lost love always crests in its reflection
These girls will always be my warmest connection

If I've done well, they will rise far above
All the way to the top and kept there by love
Never dreading the childhoods left behind
And knowing they are always on their father's mind

Of all things in life, for me to be thankful
Their love is perhaps the most wonderful 
I see this same love reflected in their eyes
And choke back a tear on remembered lullabies

(c) November 22, 2024   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved