Four years too many for my father
Cleaning very diligently to stumble upon another disaster
Comprised of a dwindling amount of patience
From the day before and many hours today with me
Making breakfast, lunch, supper, and snack
Ought he be thanked?

I scamper away from the cracking leather belt
Hiding in closets became my free time activity
A punishment that has made me an enhanced individual
I’ve learned something, has he?

Open conversations became us
The one who made the mess and the one who cleaned it up
Took me to practice and encourages me to get better
What have I learned from him, what has he learned
About unconditional love and forgiveness?