Lament

by Maree Reedman

Sitting in a cab

en route to the terminal,

introducing me in that quiet way you had,

This is my daughter,

to the driver and the woman you chatted

with at the port,

while I ran after

your bag of medicine

before it went on board without you.

Sometimes, Dad, the daily frustrations

were all I noticed,

instead of the love we had for each other

growling at my brother to Leave her alone!

letting you order our drinks at the RSL

although the bartender looked at me first.

I always wanted more of you,

but you were the best you’d ever be,

as I sat next to you holding your hand

as you lay dying

and listening to me say

I love you,

your face tilted

like a daisy to the sun.