On Being A Dad!

A poem about an aging Dad with pre-adolescent girls.

On Being a Dad!

I used to be smart.
Now, I am dumb AND stupid.

I used to be big and invincible.
Now, I am just normal and mortal.

I used to cause screams of delight.
Now, I only cause screams.

I used to be a guardian.
Now, I am a nuisance – to be seen lurking in the shadows, but not heard.

I used to be good-looking and I could wear cool clothes.
Now, I am goofy-looking and my clothes are nerdy.

I used to tell great stories.
Now, the TV or computer is more compelling.

I used to be fun to hang around with.
Now, I am the last option. (When no one else is around, nothing is on TV or the internet is down.)

I once elicited excited choruses of 'Daddy!'
Now, the word 'Dad' is spoken with an air of disgust or disappointment.

There are moments where I seem to be what I once was...but they are fleeting.
Now, I’ve lost the magic I once had.

I guess I’m no different than all the Dads that have passed before me.