Together on the Floor

That first cap I have bought him,
Anticipating the smile and hug when the day was through
The laughter and giggles to be shared when we played
Together on the floor

My plans to be the father that a son needed
Caring and strong , wise and understanding
Devoted to special times reading
Together on the floor

The day came early, too soon
Crisis and rescue of the mother
The tears, pain multiplying
Together on the floor

My son is gone, from ashes to ashes
Dull limping time with my companion
Hand in hand we bond as we walk
Together across the floor

How's my friend, is she better?
How's your wife, sister, daughter?
What can we do for her? To ensure she will carry again.
Together on the floor

To assuage the guilt of the unknowing
Check the mother fate, asking but not listening
Father forgotten, and assumptions made as they walk away
Together on the floor

My support has drifted away, fathers don't hurt
I had to move forward, care, support
A few friends cared. But my footsteps echo quietly
Together on the floor.

As a father I have become invisible
Never mattered, didn't count.
Mothers matter for all the pain and loss they endure
Together on the floor

My pain is invisible, oft unmentioned
Never asked about, and always hidden
What pain does a father endure due to the loss of a child
Together on the floor

One day my mortal self will cease
My joy and hope will be fulfilled
When my child and I will for the first time
Play together on the floor