pater secundus
when i eat bread with butter
and honey
it doesn't only taste
exquisitely sweet
it also fills me with warmth
and deep gratitude
for you
pater secundus
mentor, friend, father
the bread and honey
you loved
and which we shared
so many light-filled mornings
was a reflection
of your generosity
your beautiful, open heart
your willingness
to accept the unknown
you took on two teenage
daughters
with equanimity
and a curious mind
you waited - wise man!
until we were ready
to take your hand filled
with gifts of love, tender
like rose petals
and you gave even more
at the end of your life
when you allowed me to be
with you
in the precious silence of
your last days and hours
and breaths
while you were slipping away
into the golden world beyond
thank you, my beloved
pater secundus