Waking Dreams (Painful Separation)

My daughter turned nine today.
She lives half a continent away.
I called her on the cell,
to make sure all was well.
I hate it that we are far apart.
It pains me in my soul and heart.

I sent her a card and money,
love and prayers from me.
Packed in a box wrapped and sent,
gifts as expensive as a month's rent.
I hope she opens them with a smile.
I will miss her all the while.

Emily Sarah means the world to me;
it pains me that our separation is reality.
I have missed many of her birthdays,
while still in California she stays.
Our father-daughter bond remains strong;
dreaming of togetherness is never wrong.

My daughter turned nine today,
living half a continent away.
I dialed her mom's phone number
to tell her I will always love her
I hate it that we are far apart.
She knows I love her in my soul and heart.