Sonnet to Father

Thank you, my father, for the space you gave
For teaching me to notice those who stay
Though twelve birthdays have passed without your face
I’m no less thankful for you anyway

Thank you, my father, for the bus rides missed
Mum and I would count pigeons as we moved
And now I cannot help but reminisce
I’m thankful you weren’t there to spoil the mood

Thank you, my father, for parents’ days skipped
And for the recital invites ignored
I’m off to college, was that in your script?
Nonetheless, thank you, I’m happy you got bored.

From you, I’ve learned what manhood ought to be
So thank you, dad, thank you for leaving me.