My Daddy Said

He lived his life as best he could
An example of strength and honesty
Saw war take his father one day
A grandfather I never knew
Forced to become a man too soon
He was only twelve years old
Never a complaint did I hear from him
How life had been unfair
Work hard for what you want
Don't let things get you down
Do what is right throughout your life
Is what my Daddy said

He taught me how to throw a ball
And how to play ping-pong
Ran next to me so I didn't fall
On the bike that I first tried
Taught me patience in the garden
Growing veggies from a seed
Til the day they could be picked
And shared the first with me
He taught me how to be a man
Stand tall when things are tough
Pray to God for strength, everyday
Is what my Daddy said

Many times I let my father down
On my road  to becoming a man
He encouraged me to not give up
No matter how rough life got
Showed by example many times
And never walked away
He went to college and got a degree
To give the family a better life
His words still ring in my ears
Decide what you want to do
It might be hard, but give it your all
Is what my Daddy said

I know he wasn't perfect
But he tried the best he could
To be a father and a man
A companion to my Mom
Grandfather to my sisters' kids
Friend to those he met
To follow in his example
These words must ring true
Be grateful for the health you have
Thank God you are well fed
Love those around you no matter what
Is what my Daddy said