Composed At My Father's Bed Poem by Swarnapali Liyanage

You handed me to stand
when I was tired of kneeling
standing behind me guided
till I ripened to a woman

Pointing to stars
you gladdened little heart
I threw you tantrums
till you made me apple tart

I was sick of life I needed to cry
Heart was broken I wanted to die
You gave me shoulder to hide my face
taught me how to be bold with grace

I grew stronger; you grew older
Eyes smudges; feeble heart drags
I know you well dad you're braver
Why I feel fear; why my tear flows

I am holding your warm frail hand
You are silently leaving me just now
I know soon your hand will be cold
I want to cry but I've given you a vow

I wonder still you are happy as ever
My heart throbs; God! Don't let him hear
Eyes aim to me though you don't see me
Good bye dad! Your journey is a pain to me