What's A Father For? Poem by Lynn W. Petty

Despite my being foolish,
Please come by so that
We can share a simple wish
Or some chit-ter-chat.
I, you see, am buoyed up
By your hopes and dreams.
I'll be there to bolster up,
Even through it seems,
Life is but a battleground
Full of cries and woe.
I will blow the victory sound,
Never let you know
Trembling hands do clutch that horn
Filled with your same fear.
You will think that I was born
Caesar or his peer.
I will guide you through the maze,
Through the battle smoke,
Through the wasteland, through the haze,
Covered by my cloak.
I will trumpet a new song
Just for you to sing.
I will grapple with the throng,
Shield you from life's sting.
I will be there to console,
Help you understand,
I will play the father role,
Lending you my hand.
I can be no more to you
Other what I am.
Take the strength that I give you,
Wear it like a gem.
That's all I have to offer,
There can be no more.
Now, that depletes my coffer,
What's a father for?