Be more than his dad, <br />Be a chum to the lad; <br />Be a part of his life <br />Every hour of the day; <br />Find time to talk with him, <br />Take time to walk with him, <br />Share in his studies <br />And share in his play; <br />Take him to places, <br />To ball games and races, <br />Teach him the things <br />That you want him to know; <br />Don't live apart from him, <br />Don't keep your heart from him, <br />Be his best comrade, <br />He's needing you so! <br /> <br />Never neglect him, <br />Though young, still respect him, <br />Hear his opinions <br />With patience and pride; <br />Show him his error, <br />But be not a terror, <br />Grim-visaged and fearful, <br />When he's at your side. <br />Know what his thoughts are, <br />Know what his sports are, <br />Know all his playmates, <br />It's easy to learn to; <br />Be such a father <br />That when troubles gather <br />You'll be the first one <br />For counsel, he'll turn to. <br /> <br />You can inspire him <br />With courage, and fire him <br />Hot with ambition <br />For deeds that are good; <br />He'll not betray you <br />Nor illy repay you, <br />If you have taught him . <br />The things that you should. <br />Father and son <br />Must in all things be one — <br />Partners in trouble <br />And comrades in joy. <br />More than a dad <br />Was the best pal you had; <br />Be such a chum <br />As you knew, to your boy.<br /><br />Edgar Albert Guest<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/father-and-son-19/
