To my daughter on your 16th

Daddy wasn't always daddy, that's something you should know. 

There are parts of my life your moms' home movies didn't show.

There are moments in life that change you, and trust me I had mine. 

I was a stupid kid in a hospital room when my world stopped on a dime.

You reached up and wrapped your little hand around my finger. 

I'd never been more scared in my life, a fear that even now still lingers.

The way you looked up at me, your crys and all the tears I saw. 

I knew I'd give anything if that were the last tears of yours to ever fall. 

You took a piece of me that day, a piece I'll never be able to replace. 

A piece a father only gets to see, in the smile on his daughters face. 

So please don't judge too quickly, I know it seems I don't understand.

But there will come a day, way too soon, I'll let go of your little hand. 

You've grown so fast it's hard to believe, but I want you to know. 

 To me you'll always be the little girl, God sent me sixteen years ago.