the
first of many
starry nights
requiring more than your sunday
best
anticipated
prepared for
so many cookies sold
books read
boo boos kissed
holy bonds cemented
sacred place
chosen
for the beautiful picture
memories are flames
that burn forever
mom the prolific shutterbug
requests for smiles
freely given
flash of light
still dimmer
than the family’s
collective glow
her little hands cling to your
suit
i can see how much
she loves you
and her black lacy dress
but wishes her mary janes
were higher heels
pride beams paternal
and i can see in your
irish eyes
you have already pictured this moment
covered in white lace and wedding flowers
you will never give her away
pulling her closer
at the thought
your heart and mind swear
for the thousandth time
you will protect her
forever
she looks up into the face
which led to hers
and asks
daddy are you ready to go
you say yes
as you vow to
stay eternally
in this moment
father
daughter
you are the example
for every love
that will
come
after