Then I Turned Around

Then I Turned Around

By: Marc A. Turner Copyright © 2001

Pushing me on my bike with not a single training wheel

Dad held me strong and steady… his balance I could feel

Then I turned around… he was nowhere by my side

Back by the driveway, he stood clapping… a smile full of pride

He would go off to his work, leaving Mom and us alone

When we got too much to handle… she’d say wait till Dad gets home

Then I turned around… here comes Dad right through the door

I heard the snapping of his belt as I cowered on the floor

I’d always ask him as a kid, to let me drive the car

Dad put me on his lap, let me steer… but not too far

Then I turned around… and I was driving all alone

The little kid from Daddy’s lap was now almost full grown

I liked to go down to the lab while he did his PhD research

We often spoke about the world and Science vs. Church

Then I turned around… and this so scientific type of man

Tells me there must be a greater power… to have come up with such a plan

I used to like the stories and the war tales that he’d tell

He’d detail different battles… but always end with, war is hell!

Then I turned around… and found him hurting deep inside

He carried the hell of war for years, but the pain he’d always hide

He found peace with all his brothers, Purple Hearters from World War II

Combat wounded veterans sharing all the hell that they went through

Then I turned around… I saw my Dad as not just one of the guys

I saw a man who’d faced it all and… Hero’s tears were in his eyes

He fought a long hard battle against the enemy of time

With many ups and downs… the battles had always come out fine

Then I turned around… this time he sure did give his best

He fought like a brave soldier… but now it’s time to rest

As is the course with all that live… time keeps on going by

We all will be there someday… there is no need to wonder why

Then I turned around… I realize Dad is gone and I know that it’s for real

But in my heart and soul... his balance I still feel...

01/20/02