Dad
Growing up my dad ran a tight ship. He was stern and strict with my brother and me. Many times I was at odds with my dad. I just couldn't understand him.
One day I started to understand. When I was in the second grade I realized that school and good grades were very important to my dad so from that moment I set out to do all that I could to make my dad proud. I started befriending the smart kids in my class and making at least the honor roll every quarter.
When I was about seven years old I asked my dad why he had so many lines on his forehead. He simply said, "Because I care." Dad expected order and obedience from his children. Being in the military it was a part of him and that's how he ran the household. Now that I am a parent I have more appreciation for his perspective.
My dad is from a generation known for its sacrifices, dedication to hard work and family, old-fashioned values, and quiet wisdom. Years ago I sent this poem to my dad on his 55th birthday. It represents my dad and how he raised us. It is my favorite poem. To me it sounds like the sea when read in Spanish, so calm yet dramatic.
Tú eres el capitán, padre
La cuna, la madre y el padre
están en el rincón del cuarto
La cuna es un barco de papel
que flota en una poza de lluvia
Sueña...
Del barco varonil entre dos patrias
Pasando en el río
Y las olas ondulantes contemplan
Es el sacrificio para la tripulación
que continua el espíritu eterno
Tú eres el capitán
Heroico y grande como el sol paternal
Y las piedras de tantos obstáculos
no pueden luchar contigo
El relámpago y el trueno se enojan
¡Silencio!
Pasa en paz
Para oír las olas profundas y aprender mis hábitos
Tú eres el capitán, padre
Eres la fuerza atada del mar familiar.
You are the captain, father
The cradle, the mother and the father
are in the corner of the room
The cradle is a paper boat
that floats in a puddle of water
Dream
Of a manly ship between two countries
Passing in the river
And the undulating waves contemplate
It is the sacrifice for the crew
that continues the eternal spirit
You are the captain
Heroic and great like the paternal sun
And the rocks of many obstacles
cannot fight with you
The thunder and lightning get angry
Silence!
Pass in peace
To hear the profound waves and to learn my ways
You are the captain, father
You are the tying force of the familiar sea.
Happy Father's Day, Dad! You truly were the captain of our lives growing up and you still are. You steered us during calm, sunny days and steered us clear from danger. Love from all of us -- Elaine, Martin, and Constantine.
“You are the captain, father”