A Jamaican Dad’s Letter to His Desperately Missed Daughter

Yet even with time my heart bears, without ease, this burden of loss that I feel
And yes, it does remain broken from the malice and spite served, that’s surreal

With each word, I hold my breath, ensuring my tears never overflow their banks
Because I want to say a myriad of things and among them, I’ll say “many thanks”

Thank you so much for coming into my life, softening my unmoving heart in time
That I may feel such love that I thought impossible without charging me a dime

I know so many are curious and still they want to know why you are so far away
But you too shall learn that the guilt of a cheating heart was never mine for a day

So many times I was a fool for love, which was shared around, ignoring all the signs
But you’ll grow to learn, with time, that a passionate heart will only leave you blind

Still I pray, for once, a dishonest heart can be fair to me and be compassionate to you
And let go of the ill-intent because loving you is all I really want and know how to do

Do know that, I’d never want to break your heart and destroy any of your many dreams
But ignorant family and friends, who are no good, seem to make up your mommy’s team

I pray that your school is definitely to your liking, having met some really kool friends
But don’t you dwell on my broken heart for you that still beats as it only needs time to mend

I won’t be too long in saying that Chicago is quite a journey from your island home
And I know your school is near to where you live and with family, you aren’t alone

But I was there from the moment you were born until someone got caught in a few lies
And yes, it hurts so much being away from you, while I pray someone opens untrue eyes

Another thing Mimi, if there’s a word you don’t understand, do check your dictionary first
Maybe your mom can help you with that but I think your aunt’s help would be the worst

I’m still trying hard to learn new signs so that I may speak with you some day very soon
But until then, I’ll just type away using the imagination I’ve been left with in my room

I am a bit perturbed and can’t allow my anger to get the better of me in what I write
So I will just end by saying I miss you with every breath that I take, each day and each night

I know that someday your heart will lead you back to the place where it truly belongs
Until then, I’ll just picture you and your bashful ‘Teddy Bear’ while I listen to sad songs

With all my love,
Daddy – @PurpleHeart

Oakley Lyle is an author and poet – Visit his Facebook Page HERE

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