Dear dad,
Age13
You cancelled seeing us this weekend.
I had so much to tell you.
I was looking forward to all the things we had planned.
It’s been so long since we last saw you.
I was so excited.
You sent me a text.
It’s been a month since the last.
I’m not sure how to respond.
But I defo want to see you soon.
It’s been so long.
Age14
You read my message and didn’t answer.
Is everything okay.
I just wanna know when we can meet.
Maybe your at work.
I’ll try again later.
You haven’t messaged for a couple of months now.
I really hope your okay.
I have so much to tell you.
Please answer soon.
Age 15
OMG
Dad you messaged me.
Your taking me out this weekend.
You said your sorry and it won’t happen again.
You care about me again.
3 times in 6 weeks you’ve taken me out.
I feel like I have a dad again.
This time it will last.
I’ve got you back.
Your not texting as much.
I don’t know what I did wrong this time.
I miss you again.
I feel empty again.
I’m sorry if I upset you.
Age 16
You text me.
It’s been a year.
I’m not interested.
I don’t want to get hurt again.
I tell you this hoping you’ll fight for me.
You say okay.
I don’t hear from you again.
2 years later your getting married.
You want me there.
I’m not sure why.
I’m not a bridesmaid even though her kids are. But I get to see you again.
Maybe now it will be different
You go silent again
I’m now 19.
I have a good job.
I’m about to buy my own flat.
I’m a stronger person who finally believes in herself.
You text.
It’s not good enough.
Your texts and false promises are finally transparent.
You are bored.
You are ashamed.
You are embarrassed.
And so you should be.
Cause you aren’t my dad.
We share some DNA but you aren’t my family.
Don’t deluded yourself.
Dear dad,
It’s too late.
You missed your chance.
I learnt the lesson you taught me.
I’m better off without you.