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Letter To Daughter

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Dear Daughter,

Tomorrow is your wedding day, and everything is ready.

It's hard for me to write these words, and keep my fingers steady.
I am so nervous, thinking of so much to do that day.
In a few short hours, I will give my little girl away.

I have so much to say to you, before we walk the aisle.
So, I will write this letter, even though it's not my style.
I thought it would be easier, to write the words to you.
Then I would not forget my thoughts, as I so often do.

It's hard for me to realize, that you are some years over twenty-one.
It seems like only yesterday, your life had just begun.
I remember your first steps, and when you started walking.
And, "Daddy" was your first word, when you finally started talking.

I remember coming home, from work at seven, each day,
Then you would jump into my arms, and always you would say,
"Mommy, Daddy's home from work, now, we all can eat!"
Dinner time with you and Mom, would make my day complete.

After dinner, you would always show me something new.
Something you had made for me, or something you would do.
Then you went to school, and started growing up so fast,
The little homemade arts and crafts, became things from the past.

Becoming independent, as you reached your teenage years.
Learning how to deal with life, and overcome your fears.
My little girl was growing up, and then I learned one thing,
No longer could I keep her safely, underneath my wing.

I had to let you venture out, discover all that's new.
I think it was the hardest thing, I ever had to do.
Many men can tell you, as a Father it can be,
Scary, when you let your Daughter, finally be free.

You teach them right, you teach them wrong, your wisdom you impart.
Then you set them free, and let them follow their own heart.
You guide them, and you hope and pray, the choices that they make
Create a life of happiness, with every step they take.

So on this day, before I give my little girl away,
I have written down the words, and from my heart I'll say.
You've grown into a woman, from that little girl of mine.
And, I am proud to be your Father, you turned out just fine.

In my mind, I'll always see my Daughter running wild.
Playing all the little games, when she was just a child.
But, tomorrow when I walk the aisle, there on my side.
Will be my proudest moment, with my Daughter as a bride.

I love you more than life itself, and I can only pray.
As, I march you down the aisle, on your wedding day.
You will be complete and happy, when you say, "I do."
Because you've made my life a joy, and Daughter, "I love you!"

Love,
Dad