Dad--By Lois Greene Stone--United States

Dad

You always said, “Be Careful”

when I left the house

and I responded by acting

defiant, telling you

I wasn’t a baby that needed

to be told to be careful.

You still said, “Be Careful”

the very next time even 

when I just took my

bicycle a few houses away.

“Yeah.  Sure,” I replied,

sounding cool, indifferent.

Now I understand what

you meant when you said

“Be Careful,” it’s still

your way of expressing

you love me.

(First published Skylark)

Lois Greene Stone, writer and poet, has been syndicated worldwide. Poetry and personal essays have been included in hard & softcover book anthologies.  Collections of her personal items/ photos/ memorabilia are in major museums including twelve different divisions of The Smithsonian.