Before Time Takes Me

I watched you take your first small steps, Your hand wrapped tight in mine. You didn't know the world was wide. You just believed I'd guide. Back then, I thought there'd always be Another year to give. I never knew how fast a life Could learn to grow and leave. If I could pause one photograph, One ordinary day, I'd hold it like a fragile thing Before it slips away. Before time takes me from you, Before my voice grows weak, There's something I've been meaning, But never found to Speak. No matter where life leads you, No matter what you do, The greatest thing I ever was, Was being there for you. I wasn't always perfect. I raised you the best I knew. Sometimes love came out of silence, Sometimes hard and true. But every late night worry, Every prayer I said, Was just a father asking God To guard your steps ahead. If distance ever finds us, If years pull us apart, Remember this one simple truth I carry in my Heart. Before time takes me from you, Before these hands grow old, I want you to remember me, Not stubborn, But as bold. Bold enough to love you, Even when I failed. I'm proud of who you've become, And every trail you've trailed. One day, you'll stand where I stand now, Looking back at what you built. And you'll understand the quiet love that never Needed guilt. Before time takes me from you, Before my grave is due, If there's one thing I'll leave Behind, Let it be this truth. I loved you more than I showed you, More than words could prove. And nothing in this passing world Could ever make that move.