To my daughter’s father…

You haven’t seen her for 16 years.

You lost that right by your actions towards me, her mother.

I had to protect her.

From your anger, your insecurity, your immaturity.

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You haven’t been there for 16 years.

I brought her up alone for a while,

and then her step-father came along.

He is the total opposite of you, calm and strong.

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He gave her all the things you couldn’t.

Room to grow, security and a male role model.

There are many things you have missed.

There are so many things you don’t know,

about our daughter.

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Now she is older, and may want to seek you out.

I can’t stop her, and I won’t. It’s the way of life.

But I wanted to say to you, before she does;

that you are welcome.

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Welcome to all the nights I held her when she cried.

To all the games we played together.

To all the trips to the doctor, and the dentist.

To the times I listened, and soothed her worries.

To the life lessons I tried to show her.

To the calm I managed to keep in hard times.

To the scolding I had to give when she was naughty.

To the encouragement I gave in her many efforts at school, and with her music.

To the energy I found when I was tired.

and to the joy that she brings now she’s almost grown.

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I don’t hate you, and I never did.

I know you were a lost soul back then.

I wish you well.

I hope you made a better life.

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There’s just one more thing you need to know;

One day you’ll find out for yourself…

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Our daughter is amazing.