A paradigm set by nature –
Where there is light
there is always a shadow.

When the light – natural or faux –
casts its spell on you,
we tread the path as a pair.

One part in the pair
is the bodily self,
a set nucleus.
The other part
is the shadow.

The shadow is always hinged to
its soul – you – often at the feet.
Always altering in stature
small or big,
short or long.
Never wavering from
looking up to the earthly soul
standing strong and perseverant.

The real You, in essence
is like the shadow
in an altogether different sense.
No matter how tall you grow,
a father is someone you look up to.
Hinged to him, more often at heart,
you believe he is the strongest out there,
second only to mother nature.

He carries you as a child,
toiling to provide.
He stands as a second pillar
so you grow stronger.
He sets a precedent
to one you will closely relate to.

As time catches up, and he grows old…
A father carries pictures
where his money used to be.
He carries memories
where worries used to be.

Photo Source: “Father and Daughter” – a painting by Vickie Wade