For My Father

I remember when he smiled, his eyes smiled too.
Our love for each other, unconditional and true.
I remember the tickle of his beard when we hugged goodbye.
Cooking in the kitchen, making me his special Elephant Eye.
I remember the memories and the laughs that we all shared.
He put us first, was never afraid to show he cared.
I remember not being able to visit, Mum said you'd gotten ill.
Waited days to see you, but all you did was go downhill.
I remember, that was when the hospital visits started.
Feeling lost and empty each time that we were parted.
I remember you trying to fight it, trying to remain strong.
Your body took a beating and you suffered for so long.
I remember, you becoming very weak and frail.
Wiping your head, all clammy and pale.
I remember laying by your side, holding you the best way I could.
Wondering why this could happen to someone who was full of nothing but good.
I remember,  rubbing ice lollies along your lips, your mouth so dry.
Talking and cuddling you, resisting for your sake not to cry.
I remember the day that you took your last breath.
We said you'd be our guardian angel, you'd have a life after death.
I remember our last goodbye, laying you to rest.
To have you, as a father, I was more than blessed.
A hero and my inspiration and always in my heart.
And I know one day, we will meet again, we can't be kept apart.
So take care Dad, In the sky you now ride.
And I'll be sure to see you on the other side.