In the shadows, I stand strong, unseen tears,
Your absence a weight, my heart, it sears.
You were my shield, my rock, my guide,
Now I’m left alone, by your side.
Left with strength, but a heart that’s frail,
Pretending fine while my soul wails.
Your departure shattered my world apart,
How do I let go, where do I start?
Who now stands, by my side in strife?
Who’ll scold me, shape my life?
Your lessons, incomplete,
Teach me, father, how to live without you.
Your absence echoes, a silent plea,
To make you proud, for all to see.
Though torn within, strength I’ve found,
In every step, your spirit’s sound.
Your daughter, now stronger than ever,
Carries your legacy, eternally.
In whispered prayers, and moments spent,
I keep you close, though you’re absent.
As my father’s guidance lingers on,
In my soul, his love, never gone.
Treading this world, without your cue,
Still, ‘Thaththe,’ I’ll always carry you.
By Leo Miuni Pandithage
