at the burial-yard

i prayed fervently

for a child to take my name

and gently hold my finger

as she walked her days

and nights to teach me

the art to age!

ignoring my petition

he dropped you in my hands

with grace to spoil

and teach you

the science of kindliness!

then i prayed again

to dry the womb, to remove

all threats of filling my heart

with a step-fatherly love!

for i knew the sweetness

of snuggles and cuddles

for a healthy girl!

and now i age

evolving as a grand-dad

with a step-father at my burial yard!

© henry victor          30. 06. 2016