by Clarence Miniquaken
I still remember the times they would run to me and I was the strongest man in the world
I was able to heal a scraped knee or an elbow they banged at the corner of the dining room table just by holding them
I miss being a hero
I miss ensuring their safety while they slept
I miss the times they would scream out “Dad!” if they were afraid of the dark
I was the hero to turn on the night light or hold them until they fell asleep
I miss being a hero
I was the greatest if I took the time to watch their favourite shows or movies
I was even greater if I made popcorn
I miss being a hero
The times I would wake up to pour them a bowl of cereal, I was the hero
The times I would build or set up a new toy, I was the hero
I miss being a hero
The times I would attend their events, I was the hero
I was once a hero to all my kids
Today, they are becoming heroes to their younger siblings or children
I’m happy knowing I passed the torch of being a hero
But most of all,
I miss being a hero