Hero Dad! Poem by Rhodesse Fanche

At the stroke of 3 am, news came with a chill,
A message of death, a void to fill.
Thought it a prank, a cruel charade,
But the text, in double vision, stayed.

Dreamlike haze, am I lost in slumber's hold?
Screams unheard, my emotions unfold.
Sound waves traveled, from distance they came,
Piercing my heart, a mournful refrain.

Nightmare's grip, a terrible embrace,
Another message, confirming your place.
Sat on the floor, gazed up to the sky,
Questioned, 'God, why? ' with a tearful cry.

Mind in chaos, slipping from grasp,
Who'll guide, protect, in this painful lapse?
You, my everything, a shelter so strong,
Life's worth questioned, in moments so long.

Blood of tears, streaming from eyes,
Memories danced, moments we prized.
No, it can't be true, a denial's plea,
My hero father, can't depart from me!

Screams erupted, a river of despair,
But in my heart, a calmness was there.
For your last words lingered with grace,
Rest, you said, in a peaceful embrace.

Yes, Father, I know, you're finding your peace,
Rest in the realm where sorrows cease.
Forever in my heart, your love shall reside,
A cherished bond, that death can't divide.