Living In The Mix

  I only have once to do it  But I won't I only have once to notice But I will be blind I only have once to listen But I will ignore I only have once to play But I will work I only have once to be patient But I will be angry I only have once to get it right But I will fail I only have once To be what they need Because, you see They are a child only once I know what I should do, but Fear Shame Pride Exhaustion Worry Doubt Frailties They will all get in the way I will try with every fiber Despite all failures And shortcomings To be what they deserve I hope the day will come That they will understand The battles fought That they never saw I hope they will understand That they will have compassion That they will forgive And find healing knowing Knowing that I did it all Worked Feared Worried Cried Fought Prayed Stayed Because I am a father And despite my failures I will never stop trying I will never stop fighting Because I am a father And a father's love never sleeps Never stops p