Fathers' Day

Before our alarm clock days,

You’d have to force me out of bed,

You’d pull away my pillow

Use it to hit me in the head

Japhia and I, sound asleep

You’d come in midnight, intentionally

Tapping us on the back, saying

“Time for school, get ready!”

The siblings and I would watch TV

Body slumped, legs swinging

Then you’d suddenly appear

Singing off key and belly dancing

The phone rings and you’d pick up

And the caller asks for Janna

Although I’m right next to you

You’d reply, “Sorry, she’s in India.”

You and I are in the car

And you’d stop at the traffic light

Randomly, you’d punch my face

And we’d get into a fun fist fight

In your sermons, you’d tell people

Only at 35 can I get married,

Of procreation and grandkids

I’m sure you’re not worried

Very often, you’d ask me

“Are you hungry? Want to eat?”

Since I barely say ‘No’

How to keep fit?

Anyhow, dear dad

You’ve been a great blessing

Happy Fathers’ Day

And thanks for everything