My Sons Poem by David Self

My sons,
I wasn't always there
for every moment that mattered.
There were days I missed,
memories I wish I could've shared,
and years that can never be returned.
I carry that with me.
But life has a way of giving second chances,
and one of the greatest gifts I've ever known
is the relationship we share now.
Watching you grow into the men you are today
has filled me with more pride
than words could ever properly hold.
Strong men. Good men.
Men with heart, character, and resilience.
Even during the years when distance existed,
my love for you never did.
And now, being able to laugh together,
talk openly,
share life as men and as family—
it means more to me than you'll ever know.
You didn't become bitter.
You became better.
And that says everything about who you are.
I may not have been the perfect father,
but having the chance to truly know my sons now
feels like life giving me grace I never expected.
Thank you for letting me be part of your lives.
Thank you for the bond we've built.
I am proud of the men you've become,
and even prouder
that today, I get to call you not only my sons,
but some of my favorite people in this world.