Birthday Poem for Dad

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All Bran and Beets

 (Happy Birthday 2013, Dad)

I would not eat the All Bran.

You said, “Sit there until you do.”

I sat. But would not eat.

I was late for kindergarten that day.

You finally brought me to school when it was painting time.

I walked away from you as I heard you explain to the teacher,

“A battle of wills.”

I thought I had won.

I would not eat the beets.

You said, “Sit there until you do.”

I sat. But would not eat.

Everyone left the table.

I finally took a bite because I wanted to watch Happy Days.

You came in baffled when I was finishing the plate.
“I like them.”

I thought I had won again.

What I won, I would not know.

Until I stood above a small child

And her plate of green beans.

A child who sat. But would not eat.

And I would think fondly

“A battle of wills.”

You made me strong.

Which made her strong.

Which means we all win.