A Christmas Wish
I remember as a child,
the warmth of a mother's embrace.
In arms of love, protection
wears a mother's love on her face.
A father who taught me to fish
and kick a ball through a tyre.
The fatherly pat on my dad's knee
beckons a cuddle by the fire.
It wasn't the races I ran
that filled me with pride.
I wore a son's smile
as my father ran by my side.
A kiss on the forehead
before you tucked me into bed.
Send me into a safe slumber
as you pulled blankets to my head.
It's been years since we talked
and I wonder if there are moments
that you think about who I am
and about the decision, you have chosen.
Was it my mental health?
Did I cause you worry and strife?
Tell me, is it easier now
that I'm not included in your life?
I would love to sit down with you
and show you who I am.
Just a moment to let you see
how your child became a man.
I want to see that look on your face
when you see what I have become.
To see that look of pride in your smile,
that reflects your oldest son.
If you don't want to see me
and don't care to know me at all,
can I ask for one favour?
I won't ask you anymore.
When you see someone who struggles
and finds it hard in daily life -
can you help them when they ask you,
can you be the one who offers advice?
Because mental health doesn't lessen a son,
and pretending doesn't make it go away.
It needs to be talked about
and family needs to stay
So if you feel you want to
know your son as a man,
I'm going to be here waiting
for my mum and my dad.