It is never easy to loose a parent. But is it really any better for the parent missing us?

---

I wish that I could hold you now, and let you know I'm proud.

I wish that I could pick you up and kiss your scrapes all better.

I wish that I could hold you late at night when those nightmares come knocking.

I wish that I could hurt those that hurt you, and make them see that you're just a lonely boy.

I wish I could be there to hear you laugh with you as dandelion seeds land on your nose.

I wish I could stand there with an umbrella while you go splashing through the puddles.

I wish I could watch your face as you feel a kitten's fur for the first time.

I wish I could be there to cheer for you at your first game.

I wish I could be there when you hit your first mark.

I wish I was there when you bring your first girlfriend home to meet the family, and then shock you by telling her she has good taste.

I wish I could stand with the crowd as you graduate and give you a hug, just to embarrass you.

I wish that I could be there at home, after your first day on the job to tell you yes, it will get better.

I wish I could be there to see you give me my first grandchild, squalling as loud as you did when you first stepped into the world.

I wish I could be there, just there, with you, right now.

But of everything I wish, I wish I could tell you that I love you and that I'm so proud of you, my son.