My dad, you taught me the tools

That I couldn’t learn in school

And at the time I didn’t think were cool

But now I know why

You gave everything to try

As without them it is no lie

That I’d never would have gotten by

—

I wrote this poem when thinking about my dad sometime ago, probably shortly after he helped me do something or more specifically learn how to do something. My dad has always been adamant about teaching me how to do may different things, skills that honestly have set me apart from the common man of my age. I look at my peers and wonder why they struggle with so many, what I think are simple tasks, and then I remember my dad, and that I too would be in their shoes if it wasn’t for him.

I love my dad, and even though as a child I probably didn’t always show it. I wrote this poem to remind myself and my dad if he reads it, how much I love him and am thankful for everything he taught me. Also to inspire anyone else who is a dad, take the time to teach your child the ways of God and of man. Do not let them go into this world not knowing how to live life. Even if you weren’t taught how, take the time to learn and break the cycle. It’s never too late.