As Father’s day approaches, many of us are reflecting on the relationship that we have or had with our fathers. Some are planning celebrations and looking for perfect gifts for the wonderful men in our lives. Others are steeped in sadness because we lost a wonderful father or missed out on being raised by one. I am sharing a poem that I wrote in my book, Island Mindfulness, while reflecting on my journey during my formative years. The sentiments shared in the poem grounded me, brought me peace, and helped me to walk confidently in the world.

Heavenly Father by Janet Autherine

When I walked alone 

You took my hand and held it gently

You provided a steady shoulder to cry on

You said that all would be well, 

but I didn’t believe you so

You took my life into your hands

My first day of school, you held my hand 

as I walked through the doors

When the teacher smiled at me, I thanked you

When a kid sat next to me at lunch, my heart thanked you

Maybe everything would be fine

When a bully made fun of my nose, 

you reminded me that I am perfect

You sent your angel to accompany me

When I lost a race, you reminded me that 

I am a winner in your eyes

When I didn’t fit in, you told me that sometimes 

it was ok to stand out

I graduated from high school today and 

I am not sure what the future holds 

In my uncertainty, I prayed for your guidance

You led me to follow my heart

You promised that whatever path I choose, 

you would be by my side

I went off to college today, but before I left, 

I looked up and prayed

There were some wild times and some somber times

I lost my way a few times, but you never left me

You just silently surrounded me with your protection

I was never without a heavenly Father

You have never let me down

There was no need to find myself; 

you always assured me that I was 

your child. I stood firmly in your shadow

Today, I received a diploma that sends me out into the world

You smiled down at me 

I turn my head towards heaven and give you a high-five

As I go into the world, I know that I am on my own, 

but I am never alone.

In my journey, I have relied on my heavenly father. God was with me during my formative years and has been with me every step of my journey, and I am eternally grateful. Happy Father’s Day!

Janet Autherine

Janet is the author of Island Mindfulness: How to Use the Transformational Power of Mindfulness to Create an Abundant Life, Growing into Greatness with God: 7 Paths to Greatness for our Sons & Daughters, and Wild Heart, Peaceful Soul. Follow her journey on Instagram. Her books are available on Amazon. https://bit.ly/islandmindfulbook