What do I as a daughter wish my father had known?
That I missed him more than I, as a young teen, knew how to articulate, and I still do, now that he is gone.
That I wanted his attention, love, approval and ADVICE, but didn't know how to ask for that either.
That I was stuck in rebellion, breaking away from his and my mother's influence, and it wasn't personal against him.
That I was seeking attention and affection from men and boys that, now, I know were just second hand attempts at getting what I needed from my Dad.
That I loved him. And I know he loved me.
That I liked that he took me to church, and on walks a few times, and that I wanted more time with him than just once a week for two hours.
That I just wanted to hang out with him, watch tv, no pressure.
That I loved his sense of humor.
That I miss him and wish we had written more often after the divorce and move.
That I am so sorry for any time I was mean to him.
That I hope I wasn't a disappointment to him.
That I wish I could have gotten there sooner when he was in the hospital.
That I will never forget him, and that I am Blessed to have had him as my Dad.
~ K.V. (Georgia)