Unvoiced

My dad has always been the typical father figure; bold, strong, impregnable. Perhaps that’s why I was surprised when I saw his steps falter and his gaze drop down, when my eyes welled up. His heart throbbed at my weakest moments, he waded through conversations that made me uncomfortable, he lay staring at the ceiling when I roamed about unable to sleep at night.

I never turned to look back, no, I did. But I only saw a stoic face reluctant to exhibit any real emotion, a father willing to spend hours in his office while he could wrap me in his arms instead, a dad who barely looked at me when I had anything of importance to divulge.

In hindsight though, I understand exactly why he did what he did. I just wish I could add that he needn’t struggle as much anymore. It’s alright to feel blue sometimes and it’s okay to let the rough facade go. It's alright daddy, we’re here for you now.