Riding down the highway, tire hum is all I hear
sunny skies, no puffy clouds, this summer day is clear.
Down gravel road we pull, and park on grassy knoll
we have to walk, how many yards, still on a rocky road?

We listen to the rules, obey or leave the grounds
anxiety, it now kicks in, I sense my son around...
Dismissed to start the day, I go looking for my boy
I turn a corner, there he is, my heart now fills with joy!

We embrace each other long, being his first time away
from what he tells, and all I see, I now wish I could stay.
Another path we've taken, my breath the beauty takes
With a yelp, and a huge splash, my son jumped in a lake!

I wish I could have joined him, but my health does not allow
With children laughing, my sons smile, a frown won't cross my brow.
We continue with our plans, moving to the next event
unfortunately, it's at this point, my energy now spent.

I don't think I can make it, through a full day here at camp
pain sets in, a sweaty mess, my clothes become all damp.
Once again it seems, my health always ruins things
a golf cart pulls up, beep beep beep, c'mon now y'all jump in!

We go to see his bunkhouse, I'm preparing for a mess
but what I find, is neat and clean, do this home and I'll be blessed!
continuing our tour, I can smell the cooking lunch
by his face, and tummy growls, he can too is my hunch.

After lunch was had, we continued on our way
now it's midday, wow it's hot, how can these children play?
but youth it seems resilient, to the forces all around
not one child, complained of it, laughter the only sound.

Meeting all his friends, my heart feels full and proud
compliments, are given him, by other children loud!
To hear it from adults, I expect this from my seed
to hear it often, from his peers, remarkable indeed.

The day is winding down, parents tears start freely flowing
the waves goodbye, a sob or two, while everyone gets going.
I'm not feeling sadness, in fact I'm rather glad
we bonded more, father and son, at that I can't be mad.

Back on the lonely road, heading back to my own state
even with pain, smile still there, inside I'm feeling great.
I'm happy he has gotten, such an opportunity
to find himself, and create, some lasting memories!

Alfie P.
7/20/08