Fading Steps

This is dedicated to my da. Who was diagnosed with motor neuron disease and sadly passed away. I love and miss you so much, and I'll never forget our walks on the beach!

Fading Steps

I gaze at your footprints as they press into the golden sand.

Strong and sure, you are my da. Not just any man. 

Hardened hands hold our dogs on their lead with a tight grip. 

I never thought that in a year’s time I would be terrified that you would trip. 

From motorbike to wheelchair we watched you slowly go. 

A smile still on your face, hiding pain you would never show. 

I  see you now breathing in the sea’s salty air. 

An oxygen mask took its place, with you, a prisoner to a chair. 

When the beach comes to its end we head back and go home. 

A lively household once, now my mum sleeps alone. 

Sometimes I wonder why us, why you? 

I think to myself this can't be real, this is can't be true.

The tide washes away the footprints in the sand,

but never the memories of my da, not just any man. 

Reviews

[John the Baptist]

A beautiful tribute here. Some things in this universe are inexplicable, but the kind of love expressed here cancels them out.