Wish you were the little girl, I knew before

It saddens me, that you’re not her anymore

I have thought extensively, of this day

Pondered and pondered what to say

The time has come, you’ll be leaving soon

No longer shall I have you, all to my own

I hope just the right words, I can find

This isn’t going to be easy, bear in mind

Only our memories will remain the same

Maybe a trip to the park, for a pick-up game.

A few pearls of wisdom, to take with you

They have served me well, perhaps you too

Life isn’t going to be easy or always fair

yet follow your dreams, never despair

If you get down, and your spirit’s low

learn when to hold on, and when to let go

Put shoulders back, and head in the air

smile as though, you didn’t have a care.

Your real friends will be precious and few

they're the ones who will be there for you,

Removing reins of childhood, sets you free

Still you must think and act, responsibly

Some young will try and older ones too

to do what they can to compromise you

I’ll respect your decisions in all you do

Or ever be the one who second guess you.

No one in the world means more to me

I'm not your dad I love you as much as he