Echoes of You, Papa

By Aakriti Prasad

How can I forget, Papa?

The word, the bond, a universe in itself,

So easy to say, yet impossible to bear:

“Forget me. Forget I ever existed.”

But how can I?

Tell me, for I do not know.

How can I forget the hands

That caught me every time I stumbled,

The arms that shielded me

From shadows and cruel gazes?

How can I forget the source

Of my laughter, my strength, my will?

The memories, so vivid they haunt,

And yet, they comfort me still.

How can I forget the peace

Found in your warm embrace,

The one who brought the stars to me,

Made my world a better place?

How can I forget the voice

That taught me to soar and dream,

The fingers that wiped my tears

Before they dared to stream?

How can I forget the promises,

Those sacred vows we shared?

How can I forget the galaxy,

My universe, who always cared?

I’m sorry if I failed you, Papa,

But I can’t let you go.

Even if it means reopening wounds,

Even if it means enduring this woe.

My heart still aches for you,

Yearns to call your name once more,

Even knowing you won’t return,

It’s you my soul longs for.

I cannot forget you—

Not then, not now, not ever.

You are etched into my being,

A bond time cannot sever.

I miss you, Papa, with every breath,

In every silent tear,

Your love is my eternal compass,

Forever holding you near.

By Aakriti Prasad