Ode to Dad

by Greg Barense

There is this guy I love a lot.

I knew him since I was a tot.

I'd do anything for him without bother.

I guess it's because he's my father.

When I was little we'd play catch in the yard.

I'd often miss and look like a retard.

If he'd laugh at me who'd ever care.

I was just happy having him there.

He'd often help me with my homework.

And punish me when a jerk.

I didn't like it much at the time.

But as I grew it worked out just fine.

I was always glad when he came home.

At the dinner table he'd talk some.

He'd tell of his day and his thinking.

I'd listen intently without blinking.

Sometime when driving down the street.

He'd do something I though quite neat.

I'd sit on his lap, steer, and make the car dance.

So excited I almost wet my pants.

Decisions in life are hard to make.

So often his advice Id take.

Good consul often comes at a price.

But a father's wisdom will nicely suffice.

He liked games of every sort.

Be your best and be a good sport.

He'd tell me to win but not at all cost.

He'd still love you even if you lost.

Dad likes golf best of all.

He'd play in Spring, Summer, and Fall.

To hit the links was his delight.

One day he almost had a fight.

Once he had to hit through a tree.

I said it doesn't look good to me.

He paid no heed and played to win.

The ball bounced back and hit his chin.

Every kid should have a father.

One who helps and says no bother.

My father I think is the best.

May the Lord bless him is my request.

The love of a father is very dear.

Each one seems special with no peer.

To be near him is a special treat.

I think my Dad is hard to beat.