In the darkness of night
Woken from a bad dream
I rocked you in my arms
Until you fell asleep.

Through the terrible twos
And the tremulous teen years
We often stood resolute
In our opinions and fears.

Even as an adult
Marking your own path
We have sometimes grappled
With the aftermath.

But a change is coming
An ineffable joy
The next generation
Whether a girl or boy.

Would you mind some advice
From a parent to a child
About to be a father
In just about five months time.

Don’t try to be perfect
No one is, that’s clear
Shine the light; pave the way
And always be there.

Cherish each single moment
And please try to bear in mind
If you love, listen and learn
Everything will be just fine.