So thin and frail and silent <br />He lies there every day <br />We stop and watch his labored breaths <br />And then go on our way <br /> <br />We hold a hand that doesn’t clasp <br />With pressure in return <br />We stroke a cheek or brush the hair <br />From forehead with concern <br /> <br />We search in vain for some response <br />That shows he is aware <br />Of all the loving tenderness <br />That words can not declare <br /> <br />So much unsaid unspoken <br />Can he perceive our tears <br />So much beneath the surface <br />So little that appears <br /> <br />It’s time now Dad to let it go <br />You’ve always been so strong <br />Rest easy and goodnight dear Dad <br />Sleep peacefully and long <br /> <br />Your family will carry on <br />The way you’ve taught them to <br />Their strength is but a tribute <br />To the Dad they had in you<br /><br />Beatrice Dahlen<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/sleep-now-3/
