He Was There Poem by Jim Yerman

It was his last chance to see his dad…to look him in the eye…
to thank him for all he'd done for him…last chance to say goodbye.

On his way he had time to wonder…as his dad's life was about to dim
what his life will be like without him and how much he's meant to him.

He was a quiet, gentle man, always loving, fair and kind…
So many memories they shared…now streaming through his mind…

Playing hide and seek in the backyard, reading in his rocking chair…
as far back as he can remember when he looked up…his dad was there.

Having a catch, doing homework, playing games like Monopoly and Clue,
flying kites, going to ball parks, eating ice cream at the zoo…

Watching him when he was a winner…and when he failed, too
Smiling his encouragement no matter what he'd do.

How does he thank him for all he gave him…all his love and help and care….
and thank him for the simple gift of always being there?

When it came time to say goodbye…he held his hand tenderly…
"I'll be right here, Dad." He said with a smile, …"Like you were there for me."