The Last Time

[laura_seabrook]

The last time I saw dad,
his body lay still and cold,
lying in state,
draped with the flag,
for service rendered.

We came in to say goodbye.
And as my family returned
to reception...
 
         ...I stayed to say:
 
  that I always loved you,
   and that I was sorry,
    I was never the son,
     that you wanted,
      but I had to be me
       whoever that is.
 
And I also said:
 
  that it was OK,
   I knew because
    you loved me anyway
     and that
      made all the difference.
 
I touched your hand
and fully expected you
to open your eyes,
and say something to me,
but you lay still,
asleep,
for the very last time.
 
And later that day
they buried your body
to await for my mother
some time from now.
 
Now I cry,
but not for you,
for you are finally
at peace
again.
 
Not for you,
but for mum,
for my brothers...
 
      ...and me.