Father’s day

A Different Kind Of Hero

He is not the kind of hero who is fighting in the war.
He is not one who sails offshore.

I don’t call him Sergeant, Captain, or Sir.
His title is DAD; that is for sure!

He is the fixer of my broken things
And the household doctor when I get bee stings.

He picks me up when I fall down 
And always turns my frown upside down.

He keeps me safe when I sleep at night. 
He gives me seconds when I have a big appetite.

That’s my Dad. That’s who he is.
He deserves a medal for the things he did.

By Kelsee Briscoe

***

A Father We Have In You

A father, a dad,
Sometimes happy or mad.
Can be playful and fun,
Mostly happy and glad.

Can give tickles or hugs,
Or give us a stern talking to.
Love everlasting,
No matter what we do.

He can be funny at times,
And serious when stern.
He is so smart and wise,
So many things from him we learn.

We are thankful for our father,
In all circumstances too.
We couldn’t ask for a better father,
As the one we have in you!

By Julie Heber

***

A Poem for My Father In Law

When I married I got a new dad,
A special father in law;
That made me very happy,
And a little bit in awe.

You’re a man who cares,
With an understanding heart.
You’re also filled with wisdom;
No wonder my spouse is smart!

Thanks for being so cordial;
Thanks for welcoming me;
It feels really good to be part
Of your special family.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

A Poem for My Stepfather

Although you are my stepdad,
You’re really so much more;
We get along so well;
We have really great rapport.

You always listen to me;
I know you really care;
When I really need you
I know that you’ll be there.

I’m learning really good things,
Just by watching you;
Thanks for being my stepdad
And for being a good friend, too.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

A Real Father

It’s not so common anymore
to have a dad who’s really there,
who is the provider for his family,
who comes home every night,
whose predictability
creates a sense of stability and security
in his household.
Your routine may not seem valuable to you,
but it’s worth a lot to me.
I’m thankful that I can depend on you
to always be you–
a real father,
responsible, trustworthy,
and a great role model.
I’ve learned a lot of good things
from watching you.
Thanks, Dad.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

Always There

It doesn’t matter whether I lose or win
You are always there through thick and thin.
And no matter the weather, shine or rain
You always encouraged me in joy or pain.

And it didn’t matter through my smiles and tears
You always taught me not to have those fears.
You encouraged all my hopes and dreams
You kept me balanced and not extreme.

No matter how, what, or where
Father, thanks for always being there.

By Catherine Pulsifer

***

Always There For Your Daughter

Every day the whole year through,
I feel grateful you are my father.
Some fathers don’t have time for their kids,
But for you I’m never a bother.

You always make the effort to listen and share;
You’re there whenever you’re needed.
Because I know how much you care,
My problems are all defeated.

Dad, you are truly admired and adored,
And I hope you always know,
Your daughter’s affection for you is strong,
And my love continues to grow.

Happy Fathers Day!

By Joanna Fuchs

***

Dad, What’s It Like In Heaven?

If time exists in heaven,
Do you still rise with the sun?
Do you and Mom share breakfast
Before your day has begun?

Can the heavens hear your laughter
As you sit and reminisce
About the time we had together
And other people that you miss?

And Daddy, do you still take walks
Along heaven’s seas?
And when you gaze upon the surf,
Do you remember walks with me?

Are your standing with those brave young men
Upon its perfect shores?
Finally by their sides again,
Your comrades from the war.

Do you gather with your family
Beneath heaven’s glow?
And gaze upon those mountains still
That once you called your home.

Is music all around you,
All those songs you held so dear?
Do you and Mom still sing together,
The way you did when you were here?

Do you ever have long talks with God
About those left behind?
Do you tell him all the stories
Of all our grand and treasured times?

I think that heaven must be grateful
To have you there each day,
To bring your easy laughter
And your silly sense of play.

And I’m sure that God already knows
The special father you had been
And how I wish that you were here
To guide my way again.

But I carry you inside my heart.
You are never far from me.
I see you in my smile
And in who I grew to be.

And I’m sure that on this Father’s Day
God will help you celebrate
All those dads who changed the world with love.
What a party that will make!

By Patricia A. Fleming 

***

Daddy Poem From Baby

Daddy, I’m your baby;
I see you through new eyes.
You’re familiar; yes, I know you.
It’s my dad I recognize.

Daddy, as I grow,
I’ll be happy you are near,
My father, dad and daddy,
Taking care of me, each year.

Daddy, I’m so thankful,
You’re mine and I am yours.
Throughout our lives we’ll realize
Our unbreakable bond endures.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

Daddy’s Girl

Quiet as you are, I always knew
You were watching me, loving me, all the years through

Hard as it was at times, I am sure,
You were there for me, even when you felt like showing me the door

Through all of the years and the laughter and tears
I was happy to know there was a place I had no fears

That place was home with you and Mom,
where everything was safe and I could be calm

For years I was trouble, and for that I regret
A trillion million sorrys haven’t covered it yet

I am all grown now, and have finally found my way
All that you’ve given me, I could never repay

Hopefully seeing that I’m safe and sound
And knowing the wonderful husband and life I found

Will make you rest easy, as you hadn’t in the past, and you’ll be happy in knowing that this time it will last

So on this day I celebrate you…
My wonderful Father and the greatest Dad too!!

By Heather McTiernan

***

Essential Father

My dad is my role model for
Most everything I do.
I look to him to see what’s right
He always gets me through.
(Repeat last two lines)

I hope my father knows how much
I love him and I care.
He is my hero and my rock,
My dad is always there.
(Repeat last two lines)

My father is essential to
My life and happiness.
My feelings are so strong for him,
My heart cannot express.
(Repeat last two lines)

There’s so much more about my dad
That I would like to say,
But now I’ll end by saying to you Dad,
Happy Father’s Day.
(Repeat last two lines)

By Joanna Fuchs

***

Everything Dad

A little girl needs her daddy
To love her with manly charm,
To soothe her when she’s hurt,
And keep her safe from harm.

A girl needs her dad
To show her a man who’s good,
To help her make right choices,
As only a father could.

A woman needs her father
Just to be aware,
He’ll always be there for her
To sustain her and to care.

You’ve been all these things, Dad.
I hope that you can see
How much I treasure you;
You mean everything to me.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

Family Circle

When I am born, you are here
In your eye, I see a tear
Time flies and already I’m two
“Look, Daddy, I can tie my shoe!”

Before you know it, I’m five
Every day, you thank God I’m alive
Pretty soon, I turn eight
You tell me I’m never allowed to date

I’m already twelve in my preteen years
Which means you’ll help me with all my new fears
Now fourteen with my permit to drive
Waiting to hit the big one-five

Too early comes sixteen, with my license now
It went by too fast, you just ask how

You want to meet my boyfriend when I’m eighteen
I pray to God that you’re not too mean
The same guy two years later asks for my hand
I’m relieved when you say, that’s just grand

About a year later, you walk me down the aisle
Through all the tears, you bare a smile
Three years later, you’re gonna be a grandfather
You show love and pride for your new granddaughter

Another year down the road
Mom dies, oh the many tears that flowed
You’re not doing so well without her
Less than a year later, you forgot all about her

Alzheimer’s sets in and it scares me so
Not long after, you decide to go
Now I’m regretting not saying goodbye
Every time I think about it, I start to cry

The cycle has begun again
It has started over with little Megan
The other day, she turned two
And said, “Look, daddy, I can tie my shoe!”

By Melissa G. Nicks

***

Father

When I scratched my knee,
Or if I bumped my head,
When I was afraid of the dark,
Or that thing under my bed,
When I cried in the night,
Or even in the day,
You were there for me
To make it all okay.

You tickled my feet
And laughed at all my jokes.
You taught me to believe
In having high hopes.
You are my father.
You did what you had to do,
But more than a father
You are my friend, too.
You made everything good
That was once bad.
I just want you to know
I love you, Dad.

By Jennifer S. Williams

***

Father

My father knows the proper way

The nation should be run;

He tells us children every day

Just what should now be done.

He knows the way to fix the trusts,

He has a simple plan;

But if the furnace needs repairs,

We have to hire a man.

My father, in a day or two

Could land big thieves in jail;

There’s nothing that he cannot do,

He knows no word like “fail.”

“Our confidence” he would restore,

Of that there is no doubt;

But if there is a chair to mend,

We have to send it out.

All public questions that arise,

He settles on the spot;

He waits not till the tumult dies,

But grabs it while it’s hot.

In matters of finance he can

Tell Congress what to do;

But, O, he finds it hard to meet

His bills as they fall due.

It almost makes him sick to read

The things law-makers say;

Why, father’s just the man they need,

He never goes astray.

All wars he’d very quickly end,

As fast as I can write it;

But when a neighbor starts a fuss,

’Tis mother has to fight it.

In conversation father can

Do many wondrous things;

He’s built upon a wiser plan

Than presidents or kings.

He knows the ins and outs of each

And every deep transaction;

We look to him for theories,

But look to ma for action.

BY EDGAR ALBERT GUEST

***

Father Death Blues

Hey Father Death, I’m flying home
Hey poor man, you’re all alone
Hey old daddy, I know where I’m going

Father Death, Don’t cry any more
Mama’s there, underneath the floor
Brother Death, please mind the store

Old Aunty Death Don’t hide your bones
Old Uncle Death I hear your groans
O Sister Death how sweet your moans

O Children Deaths go breathe your breaths
Sobbing breasts’ll ease your Deaths
Pain is gone, tears take the rest

Genius Death your art is done
Lover Death your body’s gone
Father Death I’m coming home

Guru Death your words are true
Teacher Death I do thank you
For inspiring me to sing this Blues

Buddha Death, I wake with you
Dharma Death, your mind is new
Sangha Death, we’ll work it through

Suffering is what was born
Ignorance made me forlorn
Tearful truths I cannot scorn

Father Breath once more farewell
Birth you gave was nothing ill
My heart is still, as time will tell.

By Allen Ginsberg

***

Fatherhood Is God’s Idea

Thanks be unto God the Father
for His great work in creating man.
God decided to reproduce Himself, 
So He formed man with His hand.

God crowned man with His glory
and gave him dominion over the earth.
He made man a little lower than the angels
and honored him with great worth.

God endowed man with wisdom
so great things he would be able to do.
He made him in the likeness of Himself 
so man could become a father too.

Creating man was God’s best work.
He gave him authority and great might
to provide for the needs of his family
and courage to face the darkest night.

We honor God for His creation
and for making man His masterpiece.
He is to be an extension of Christ Jesus
so God’s kingdom work will not cease.

So we salute fatherhood everywhere.
It is the highest position in the land.
It’s no greater honor than being called dad
and no greater foundation on which to stand.

By Lenora McWhorter

***

Father’s Day In Heaven

I love you and I miss you, Dad,
and though you’ve passed away,
you’ll never be forgotten,
for I think of you each day.

If heaven celebrates this day
how special it will be.
A gathering of the many dads
upon our family tree.

Your father and grandfather
and great grandfather too.
How wonderful it is, if they
can spend this day with you.

May you know how much I love you,
though I’m here and you are there.
Happy Father’s Day in heaven
to the best dad anywhere!

By Ron Tranmer

***

Father’s Day Prayer

Lord, please bless our fathers,
these men who mean so much to us,
who are greatly responsible
for who we are and who we are becoming.
Bless them for having the courage
to do what’s necessary to keep us out of trouble,
for making us do the right thing,
for helping us build our character,
even when it makes us angry;
and bless them for pushing us to do our best,
even when they just want to love us.
Bless our fathers for being our protectors,
for leading us through stormy times to safety,
for making us believe that everything will be all right
and for making it so.
Bless our fathers for quietly making a living
to provide for those they love most,
for giving us food, clothing, shelter
and other necessary and not so necessary material things,
for unselfishly investing time and money in us
that they could have spent on themselves.
Bless our fathers, Lord,
for saving some energy for fun,
for leading us on adventures
to explore the outer reaches of ourselves,
for making us laugh,
for being our playmates and our friends.
Bless them for being our secure foundation, our rock,
for holding on tight to us…until it’s time to let us go.
Lord, bless these men we look up to,
our role models, our heroes,
our fathers.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

Grandfather Poem

You raised us well Dad
Values you gave us
You always loved us even the bad
You never made a big fuss.

And now to my children you are
The best Grandfather that can be
A special man to them by far
You are better with them than me.

So thank you for being that special man
Whom I love so dearly
And to my children they are your fans
We can see your love so clearly.

By Catherine Pulsifer

***

Happy Father’s Day

I was not sure what to get you
On this very special day
So I decided to write this poem from my heart
I have some things I need to say:

I would first like to thank you,
For never giving up on me.
You pushed me when I needed it
And through your eyes I’ve learned to see

We cannot give up when times are tough
We’ve got to learn to lose before we can win
And if I shall ever fall
I know I will always get back up again

Thanks to you, I hold my head high
And carry myself with pride
Thanks to you, I am somebody
Who will never run and hide

Through you I’ve learned to face my fears
And take each day as it comes
You cannot take anything with you when you’re gone
What’s done is done

You lead by example
And because of you, I’ve learned a lot
Thanks to all the dedication that you have demonstrated
And the many many times that you have fought

You have fought for our existence
You have fought for everyone in your life
Never have I seen you give up
And thus in me you’ve instilled the fight

Never will I back down
For what I think is right
You’ve given me the will and determination
You’ve given me the might

To learn how to stand up
And learn to take a fall
But most of all, dad
I’ve learned you will never stop loving me at all

By  Elisa Garcia

***

Happy Father’s Day

When I was just a little kid I knew you worried.
You worried about what would happen to me.
Though you never raised me you were always there.
There when I needed you.
There when I needed to cry.
When I needed you for my pain and hurt.
When I needed a father it was you by my side.
Daddy, I needed a father like you.

It’s Father’s Day and you’re not there.
I love you and need you, but you don’t care.
I need a father to lift me up when I am down.
But when I look, you’re not around.
Nobody likes to live alone.
Without a dad in the home.
Daddy I need you in my life.
Without you my heart feels like it was hit with a knife.

By Dawn-Marie Knudsen

***

Happy Father’s Day

When I wake in my sleep
You are there to comfort me
With mommy by your side
…To help me breathe

You help with so much
And sacrifice yourself
To help us get better
And teach us to succeed
To not be afraid
Give strength to believe

Happy Father’s Day
You deserve to be praised
Remember you’re a father
And ability is your thing
In my eyes, a father can do anything

Happy Father’s Day
You deserve to be praised
A father is always there
To protect and save
Happy Father’s Day

You’re my hero
And my base
My life would be forever changed
If you weren’t here

Inch by inch I grown
And grew up to be so mature
But I wouldn’t be here
If the courage wasn’t you

Happy Father’s Day
You deserve to be praised
Remember you’re a father
And ability is your thing
In my eyes, a father can do anything

Happy Father’s Day
You deserve to be praised
A father is always there
To protect and save
Happy Father’s Day

By Chelsea P. Medrano

***

He Is My Father

While I sleep, someone’s hand is always on my head,
While I wake, someone’s blessings are always with me,
While I go out, someone’s heart always holds me.
He is my father.

The world earns for itself,
But someone earns just for me.
He is my father.
Through the highs and lows,
Someone has promised to be with me.
He is my father.

The world may turn against me,
But he’s the one who’ll ever stand with me.
He is my father.
I always live, laugh and love,
And he is always there to share all of it with me.
He is my father.

He may not be the handsomest,
He may not be the richest,
He may not be the most sought after,
But he is the purest, most perfect man.
He is my father.

He loves me,
Though he might not know how to make it show.
He respects everyone,
And is respected by everyone he knows.

I thank the good Lord he is mine.
I pray to the good Lord he always stays fine,
Because if there is someone who’ll always care,
He is my father.

By Ritwik Shandilya

***

Hero Dad

You are my hero, Dad
You’re my secure foundation.
When I think of you, I’m filled with love
And fond appreciation.

You make me feel protected;
I’m sheltered by your care.
You’re always my true friend; and Dad,
When I need you, you’re always there.

You have a place of honor
Deep within my heart.
You’ve been my superhero, Dad,
Right from the very start.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

I Never Want To Lose You

I grew up like most kids,
Wishing to be like my dad,
No matter what he did,
Be it good or be it bad.

He worked so very hard,
Many miles he had to roam
To provide for the family,
The ones he left at home.

All he ever wanted
Was to give us the best,
But time at home without him
Really put me to the test.

I never understood
His absence far away
‘Till I became a man,
And walked the path his way.

I became a father,
Now I finally see,
You’re the sole provider,
And no, it’s not easy.

Now I’ve figured out
What my father went through.
He had to scream and shout,
For the things that I would do.

Everything he tried to teach,
I rebelled with every word.
I thought I knew better,
His words I never heard,

The reason for the wisdom,
We learn throughout the years,
So we can keep our children,
From shedding the same tears,

Dad, I’m very sorry
For all I’ve put you through.
I’ve cried so much these last few days,
I’m scared of losing you.

You mean the world to me,
I feel like such a fool.
I’m a lucky man, you see,
To have a Dad like you!

By Mark A. Smith

***

I Understand Now

Used to wonder just why Father,
Never had much time to play;
Used to wonder why he’d rather
Work each minute of the day.

Boys are blind to much that’s going
On about them every day,
And I had no way of knowing
What became of Father’s pay.

All I knew was when I needed
shoes I got ’em on the spot;
Everything for which I pleaded,
Somehow Father always got.

Wondered season after season
Why he never took a rest,
And that I might be the reason
That I never even guessed.

Rest has come – his task is ended,
Calm is written on his brow,
Father’s life was big and splendid,
And I understand it now.

By Edgar A. Guest

***

I Want to Be Just Like You

In a time when fathers are totally absent,
gone most of the time,
or physically present but mentally distracted,
you are there for me—
looking at me, listening to me
understanding me, talking with me.
You make time for me
even when it’s inconvenient for you.
You make me feel important to you.

I learn from you when you teach me,
when I watch you do things,
and when I observe you
just being you—a terrific father.

Every affectionate smile you give me,
every pat on the back, every hug
shows me you love me,
that you’re proud of me.

These are things I’ll remember
to do for my own kids.
You’re a great role model, Dad.
I want to be just like you.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

I’d Pick You

Dad, if all the fathers
Had lined up one by one,
And God told me to pick,
I’d still choose to be your son.

I’m proud to have a father
Who listens and understands,
Who teaches me and sets fair rules
Without unfair demands.

Dad you are my hero,
My role model in all you do.
So Dad, if I could pick again,
You know I’d still pick you!

By Joanna Fuchs

***

If Everyone Had a Father Like You

If everyone had a father
Who was more like you,
There’d be more laughing, joy and singing;
Fewer people would be blue.

There’d be much more understanding;
Crime and hate could not prevail.
We’d all be so contented,
We wouldn’t need a jail.

If everyone had a father
Who was more like you,
The whole world would be blessed,
Just as I am blessed with you.

By Karl Fuchs

***

It’s My Father

Do you know who I want to be like?
It’s not Roosevelt, Reagan or Ike.
It’s my father.

Who taught me to drive and skate?
Who taught me to care and not hate?
It’s my father.

The man I’ll respect till I die,
Who taught me always to try,
It’s my father.

He was never too busy for me;
He’s my ideal man, totally.
My father!

Thanks for being a wonderful father, Dad!

By Karl Fuchs

***

Life Lessons

You may have thought I didn’t see,
Or that I hadn’t heard,
Life lessons that you taught to me,
But I got every word.

Perhaps you thought I missed it all,
And that we’d grow apart,
But Dad, I picked up everything,
It’s written on my heart.

Without you, Dad, I wouldn’t be
The person I am today;
You built a strong foundation
No one can take away.

I’ve grown up with your values,
And I’m very glad I did;
So here’s to you, dear father,
From your forever grateful kid.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

Loving Like A Daddy Can

Daddy, Daddy sit me on your knee.
Together we will always be.
Closest of friends,
From beginning to end.
You always knew what was best,
While you guided me through trials and tests.
You were always there,
Never ashamed to be my teddy bear.
Looking up at the stars,
You’re holding me in your arms.
I’m wrapped up so tight,
I could not escape with all my might.
You’re my protector; you’re my shield
From life’s playing field.
I want to thank you from my heart.
I believe that nothing could ever tear us apart.

By Shayna Montgomery

***

Memories Of My Dad

He wasn’t a hero
Known by the world,
But a hero he was
To his little girl.

My daddy was a god
Who knew all things.
And better than Santa,
With the gifts he’d bring.

I knew his voice
Before I could speak
And loved it when
He would sing me to sleep.

He changed my diapers
And sat up all night
When my body was weak
And I’d put up a fight.

He’d come home late
With not much to say
And made us all kneel
As he taught me to pray.

He taught me life’s lessons
Of right from wrong
And instilled in me values
That I might be strong.

And so through the years,
Like a hero he stood.
Working to give
All that he could.

His presence was important,
And we loved to see him smile,
For no one in the world
Could emulate his style.

And so, dear Dad,
My best memory to recall
Is the gift of your presence,
The greatest gift of all.

By Rebecca D. Cook 

***

My Dad

If I could write a story,
It would be the greatest ever told.
I’d write about my daddy,
For he had a heart of gold.
My dad, he was no hero
Known around this world.
He was everything to me,
For I was his baby girl.
I’d write about the lessons.
He taught me right from wrong.
He instilled in me the values
That one day I’d be strong.
He taught me to face my fears,
Take each day as it comes,
For there are things that we can’t change.
He would say what’s done is done.
He would say hold your head up high,
Carry yourself with pride.
Thanks to him, I am somebody,
I will never run and hide.
If I could write a story,
It would be the greatest ever told.
I’d write about my daddy,
For he had a heart of gold.

By Vicky Frye

***

My Dad

I know this man
Who is dear to my heart.
Suddenly one day
It was torn all apart.

This man taught me everything
That I needed to know,
But I never really listened
Until he had to go.

He gave me love
And touched my life.
It’s all over now;
He no longer has to fight.

He tried to teach me
Right from wrong.
The day he left
I wasn’t that strong.

He is gone now,
It is hard to believe.
This man is my dad
Whom I will never see.

But I will see him again,
This I know.
The day will come
When it’s time for me to go.

So, I’ll hold him dear
And close to my heart
‘Cause the day we meet
I know we’ll never be torn apart.

By Disarae G. Kuhn

***

My Daddy

I sit and look back to how far I can remember,
And you are always there next to me.
Each and every day you were helping me grow up,
And making me be the best that I can be.

Your love was forever strong,
Your cuddles forever tight.
Every day since I was born,
Your love was always in sight.

I will always be your Baby Girl,
And you will always be my Dad.
I know I will always be the luckiest
To have the best Dad any girl could have had.

My Daddy, I love you with all my heart,
Much more than I ever say.
You are my world, my everything,
Each and every day.

By Ranja Kujala 

***

My Daddy

A daddy is a special man
In which all things abound
Showing care and passion
And love to all around

I shall treasure all the sleepless nights
And sacrifices made
All because you loved me
Through the problems that I gave

Doing little special things
Memories
All for me
Your eyes they tell the story
When you speak of me

Your hands that once were strong and firm
Now softened with the age
But you’re still my daddy
And never would I trade

Smiles and hugs and kisses
As I sat there on your knee
From childhood to the woman
Who before you
Now you see

I have locked away those precious times
They are mine
For me to see
I keep them all within my heart
Take them everywhere with me

My love for you
Is just as strong
As the one when I was three
And I know this kind of special bond
Was meant for you and me

I hope that you will see it now
You’re in my thoughts each day
I’m so glad you are my daddy

And happy Father’s Day

By Danny Henry 

***

My Father

What would I do without my father,
Who does so much for me?
I’d probably end up living in,
A house infested by bees.

I’d have mice running free,
All through my house.
I may even have decided,
Not to marry my spouse!

I wouldn’t know how to hammer,
Probably would never pick one up.
I would never have learned to make,
Coffee then serve it in a cup.

So many different things,
I have learned from him.
My life would be so different,
Oh it would be so grim!

By Julie Heber

***

My Father Is A Christian

My father is a Christian;
He leads our household well;
With instruction from the Bible,
Right behavior he’ll compel.

Yet he steers us with compassion;
His gentle love is true;
He conforms to our Lord Jesus,
So we know just what to do.

He teaches us with purpose,
Guides us in all Godly ways,
So we will take the right path,
And serve our Lord with praise.

I’m glad you’re a Christian, Dad;
You help me see things clearly.
I’ll always look up to you,
And love you very dearly.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

My Father, My Friend

For my father, my friend,
This to me you have always been.
Through the good times and the bad,
Your understanding I have had.
A gentle man at heart,
This sets you apart
From the others I’ve seen.
You mean so much to me.
The laughter we have shared
Cannot be compared.
The tears I have shed,
As you lovingly nodded your head.
You have always been there,
With a smile and a hug,
A precious gift from our God up above.
The times that I have been down and sad,
Your silly ways could always make me glad.
You gave me strength to carry on,
Even when all hope seemed to be gone.
The lessons in life that I have learned
Are from your genuine love and concern.
With deep appreciation for all you have done.
You, Dad,
Are my number one.
With all my love, Your Daughter, Your Friend

By Peggy Stewart 

***

My Father, My Guiding Light

Dad, you’re like the sun to me,
a sure thing, always there,
beaming light and warmth on my life.
Whatever is good in me today,
I owe to your wisdom, your patience,
your strength, your love.
You taught me by example,
as a role model,
how to be my own person,
how to believe in myself,
instructing me without controlling me.
Even when we disagreed,
you held us together,
so our bond was never broken.
I understand what you did for me,
and I am so grateful that I have you
as my solid foundation, my rock.
I respect you, I admire you, I love you,
my guiding light, my father.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

My Father’s Hats

Sunday mornings I would reach
high into his dark closet while standing
on a chair and tiptoeing reach
higher, touching, sometimes fumbling
the soft crowns and imagine
I was in a forest, wind hymning

through pines, where the musky scent
of rain clinging to damp earth was
his scent I loved, lingering on
bands, leather, and on the inner silk
crowns where I would smell his
hair and almost think I was being
held, or climbing a tree, touching
the yellow fruit, leaves whose scent
was that of a clove in the godsome
air, as now, thinking of his fabulous
sleep, I stand on this canyon floor
and watch light slowly close
on the water I’m not sure is there.

By Mark Irwin

***

My Father’s Love

My father’s love never places judgment on me,
his love comes unconditional and unselfishly.

For all the things you’ve done to show how much you care,
always remains as a reminder that you will always be there.

I’ll never forget the affection you have shown in so many ways,
faithful to me, as a father you have never missed a day.

The way you look at me with that twinkle in your eye,
no matter my situation lets me know I’ll be alright.

You have taught me the difference between right and wrong,
and as I became a woman, you taught me to be strong.

I’ll always be grateful for you being there through my struggles and my strife,
because of your encouragement, you taught me the meaning of life.

Now you raise my little sister who is so close to your heart,
another little girl from whom her father she can’t stand to part.

As she’s just a baby now I watch you teach her as she grows,
and I sit back and I smile because one day she will know,

This special man who she calls dad is the one person who will be there when she’s happy or she’s sad.

When she is grown there will be no doubt in her mind,
of the father she loved who never left her behind.

Each day as you look in the mirror, I pray that you see,
there is no one in the world who will ever mean more to my sister and me.

By Wendy Nichols

***

My Papa’s Waltz

The whiskey on your breath   

Could make a small boy dizzy;   

But I hung on like death:   

Such waltzing was not easy.

We romped until the pans   

Slid from the kitchen shelf;   

My mother’s countenance   

Could not unfrown itself.

The hand that held my wrist   

Was battered on one knuckle;   

At every step you missed

My right ear scraped a buckle.

You beat time on my head   

With a palm caked hard by dirt,   

Then waltzed me off to bed   

Still clinging to your shirt.

BY THEODORE ROETHKE

***

My Special Joy

A grandfather is a special blessing
enriching the life of a grandchild
with unique and incomparable joys.
Grandpa, you are my special joy.
I get a warm, safe, contented feeling
when I think of you.
With you, I feel no pressure to be
what someone else wants me to be;
you love me enough to let me be me.
You’re never in a hurry;
you always take time to listen and to help.
You are always there for me when I need you;
You’re never too busy for talks, for walks.
I can count on your wisdom,
your life experience,
your understanding heart
to help me comprehend and get through
challenges you’ve already faced.
You are part parent, part teacher,
part best friend.
Your strength and your easy, calm confidence
is your legacy to me,
and I love you dearly.

Happy Father’s Day, Grandpa!

By Joanna Fuchs

***

My Dad

If I could write a story,
It would be the greatest ever told.
I’d write about my daddy,
For he had a heart of gold.
My dad, he was no hero
Known around this world.
He was everything to me,
For I was his baby girl.
I’d write about the lessons.
He taught me right from wrong.
He instilled in me the values
That one day I’d be strong.
He taught me to face my fears,
Take each day as it comes,
For there are things that we can’t change.
He would say what’s done is done.
He would say hold your head up high,
Carry yourself with pride.
Thanks to him, I am somebody,
I will never run and hide.
If I could write a story,
It would be the greatest ever told.
I’d write about my daddy,
For he had a heart of gold.

By Vicky Frye

***

On This Father

Being a father to a son,
brings a man’s heart so much joy.
You can’t imagine your world,
without this wonderful little boy.

Our son has grown so much,
there’s no trace of “baby” in his smile.
But the work has just begun, Dad,
time to readjust the dial.

Wrestling in the living room
makes him feel big and strong.
Giving him the confidence to make decisions;
hopefully right, sometimes wrong.

From sporting events to his first car;
to dating and a family of his own.
You are the one he will turn to,
The best man he’s ever known.

He will watch your every move,
so guide him the best you can;
Cause only a Daddy can teach his son
how to become a man.

I prayed no other woman
would come along and steal your heart;
but from the moment we heard, “it’s a girl”
I knew she would have you from the start.

A little girl needs her Daddy
to love her with gentlemanly charm.
To hold her tightly when she is afraid;
and keep her safe from harm.

From pigtails and bubblegum,
to lipstick and high heels;
Help her mend a broken heart,
teach her that true love is real.

Dance with her in the living room,
just to see her twirl.
Know there is no love that equals that of
Daddy’s Little Girl.

She will grow to be a woman,
with irresistible charm and grace;
But right now take each special moment
and treasure her sweet face.

I stood and made a promise
to love you come what may;
and watching you turn from husband to Daddy,
makes that love grow more each day!

By Kacee Harrington 

***

Only A Dad

Only a dad, with a tired face,
Coming home from the daily race,
Bringing little of gold or fame,
To show how well he has played the game,
But glad in his heart that his own rejoice
To see him come, and to hear his voice.

Only a dad, with a brood of four,
One of ten million men or more.
Plodding along in the daily strife,
Bearing the whips and the scorns of life,
With never a whimper of pain or hate,
For the sake of those who at home await.

Only a dad, neither rich nor proud,
Merely one of the surging crowd
Toiling, striving from day to day,
Facing whatever may come his way,
Silent, whenever the harsh condemn  
And bearing it all for the love of them.

Only a dad, but he gives his all
To smooth the way for his children small,
Doing, with courage stern and grim,
The deeds that his father did for him.
This is the line that for him I pen,
Only a dad, but the best of men.

By Edgar Guest

***

Poems For Dad

What can we give,
To an awesome, fabulous Dad.
On a day like today,
When we are feeling very glad.

How can we repay,
A loving and giving Dad.
Who is always there for us,
Even when he is mad.

Where should we take,
Such an amazing Dad.
Who takes us everywhere.
And cheers us up when we are sad.

And to share words of love,
When should we tell or say?
Every chance we get of course,
But especially on Fathers Day!

By Julie Hebert

***

Silent, Strong Dad

He never looks for praises.
He’s never one to boast.
He just goes on quietly working
For those he loves the most.
His dreams are seldom spoken.
His wants are very few,
And most of the time his worries
Will go unspoken, too.
He’s there…a firm foundation
Through all our storms of life,
A sturdy hand to hold onto
In times of stress and strife.
A true friend we can turn to
When times are good or bad.
One of our greatest blessings,
The man that we call Dad.

By Karen K. Boyer

***

Special Dad

My dad is very special,
He’s not just a dad but a friend;
For he knows where there is a Difference,
When one should start and the other end.

He’s my dad when I need real guidance,
But if I need a pal for a while,
He’s right there in each situation,
Not with just concern, but a smile.

Kids need someone like that,
To help them draw that line,
Between what is right and wrong.
Sometimes the difference is hard to define.

So I’d like to thank Dad for being there,
For helping me all the way.
And to all the Dads who stand by their kids,
God bless you this Father’s Day.

By Trinity Pratt

***

Special Hero

When I was a baby,
you would hold me in your arms.
I felt the love and tenderness,
keeping me safe from harm.
I would look up into your eyes,
and all the love I would see.
How did I get so lucky?
You were the dad chosen for me.
There is something special
about a father’s love.
Seems it was sent to me
from someplace up above.
Our love is everlasting.
I just wanted you to know
that you’re my special hero,
and I wanted to tell you so.

By Christina M. Kerschen

***

Step Father Poem

First I must say how sorry I am,
That you ended up, raising me.
But second I say that I’m happy to state,
You ended up being someone like thee.

You fought and you held out for happier times,
And it took a little longer, than you had first thought.
But all that waiting and hoping for those children to accept you,
Has allowed you to finally get what you sought.

You’re apart of our family, we hope you are happy,
It was tough, but you pulled through.
You’ve been a great father, never a bother,
We can only hope you think so too!

So thank you for being someone so beaming,
Not occasionally but every single day!
At first it annoyed us, but now we enjoy, thus,
Wanting to yell out hip, hip, hooray!

By Julie Heber

***

The Best Man I Ever Knew

When we married, I saw you as perfect,
The ideal husband and more;
I thought I knew all about you,
All the things to love and adore.

But when you became a father,
I saw new qualities to treasure.
You enrich all our lives in fresh ways;
As a dad, you bring so much pleasure.

Our child/children is/are forever blessed
To have a father like you,
And I love you more than ever,
You’re the best man I ever knew.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

The Perfect Father

I love you because you’re my father,
But you’re really so much more;
You’re a guide and a companion;
You and I have great rapport.

You pay attention to me;
You listen to what I say.
You pass on words of wisdom,
Helping me along the way.

Whenever I’m in trouble,
You always have a plan.
You are the perfect father,
And I’m your biggest fan!

By Karl and Joanna Fuchs

***

To Her Father with Some Verses

Most truly honoured, and as truly dear,

If worth in me or ought I do appear,

Who can of right better demand the same

Than may your worthy self from whom it came?

The principal might yield a greater sum,

Yet handled ill, amounts but to this crumb;

My stock’s so small I know not how to pay,

My bond remains in force unto this day;

Yet for part payment take this simple mite,

Where nothing’s to be had, kings loose their right.

Such is my debt I may not say forgive,

But as I can, I’ll pay it while I live;

Such is my bond, none can discharge but I,

Yet paying is not paid until I die.

BY ANNE BRADSTREET

***

To My Husband On Father’s Day

I can’t call you my Father,
And you’re certainly not my Pop.
I wouldn’t call you PaPa
Because to me you’re certainly not.
I can’t call you my Pappy,
Nor could I call you Dad.
You’re definitely not my Daddy.
One of these I already have,
But I can call you Honey.
My best friend I have in you.
A loving caring husband,
A gent who’s kind and true,
My guy of tender gentle words
You place within my heart.
The one who’s strong and steady
And has been from the start,
A man that’s more appreciated
More than I can ever say.
I’m saying this to wish you
A special Father’s Day!

By Jac Judy A. Campbell 

***

What Is A Dad?

A Dad is patient, helpful, and strong
He is there by your side when things go wrong
He’s someone who guides you to do the right thing
And helps you solve problems that life sometimes brings

A Dad is someone who is loving and kind
And usually knows what’s going on in your mind
He is someone who listens and makes time to talk
When things are bad he doesn’t turn around and walk

He is a strong shoulder when times are tough
And still loves you dearly when he’s had enough
He helps you and guides you all that he can,
Wanting nothing more than to make you a man

A Dad’s there when you’re happy and even more when you’re sad
Giving unconditional love whether you’re good or you’re bad
A Dad is someone that you can also call a friend
Who is there no matter what and will be till the end

They say that blood is thicker than water
But I know this isn’t true
Because my son couldn’t ask for a better Dad
Than one he has found in you

I think of all the years gone by and wonder
How different things would’ve been
If his real father put forth the love
That you have shown to him

Happy “Father’s” Day, Tommy
Thank you for showing my son what a real father is
And for loving him as much as you do. You will always
Have a special place in my heart and his

By Annmarie Campbell 

***

What Is A Father

Who constitutes a father,
At what task makes it so?
Does it happen slowly,
Or should we all just know?

Is a father there from birth,
Or can they join at a later date?
Do they have to be related,
So many questions to debate.

Maybe there is a number,
Of diapers one has to change.
Can they be your favourite person,
Or must they be a little strange?

I think a father is someone,
Who loves unconditionally,
There is no perfect formula,
To who a father can be.

By Julie Hebert

***

Wind Beneath My Wings

I can always count on you, Daddy.
You’re the wind beneath my wings,
My rock and my foundation,
My safety, whatever life brings.

Sometimes you’re a funny Daddy,
When I need to laugh and play;
When life gets too intense,
Your silliness takes me away.

Please, always be my daddy;
Guide me in the right direction.
I’m always your adoring daughter,
Filled with admiration and affection.

By Joanna Fuchs

***

Wish You Were Here

Three months have passed.
I’ll never forget the day
Someone rang to tell me
That you’d gone away.

The hurt is the same,
Like an open wound.
There are days
I don’t utter a sound.

Some days the pain is stronger.
It makes me sick and weak.
I can’t stand this much longer.
I just sit here and weep.

I’ve shut my private door
And let no one in,
Locking myself in a box.
They try, but I won’t give in.

You were like a rock,
Strong, faithful and true.
What worth has my life
Now that I don’t have you?

I was your first born,
Daddy’s little girl.
I took my own path
But was still part of your world.

I was not the best,
Guilty of neglect,
But you know, Daddy dearest,
I had so much respect.

I always loved you,
My dad, my star.
Now my pain is
To worship you from afar.

I love you now
As I did back then.
I just hope… one day
I will see you again.

I am so proud of you,
Brave and strong to the end.
Now when asked, “How are you?”
There is no need to pretend.

We all love and miss you so much; sleep well,
and take care of all who went before you.

Forever in my heart!

By Diana Doyle