Like a Blessing Cast Forward

There will be first dances 

after tearful fathers

walk daughters down the aisle. 

Someday, I will spoil nietos 

like only a grandfather can. 

It won’t be some dream of tears,

But a tear-soaked stroll down the aisle.

I’ll cry first, then you’ll follow—

fulfilling our bet 

from when you were twelve.

The future requires no crystal ball 

no spirit guide, to glimpse 

honor already on the horizon. 

You will be recognized 

by the greatness in you,

cohetes cracking open the sky,

fireworks bursting on the fourth. 

All these blessings, destined 

at their unfolding, 

all in their time,

all in their place.

But today already contains 

the joy you bring,

and the beloved pride 

in your dad's eyes.