Always My Father But Never My Dad

• by Connie
• 6 years ago

Wow, this poem was straight to the point. It reminds me of my oldest daughter's dad. He said he would change and stay out prison, but he didn't. Now he is getting ready to do 40 years. It's so sad he missed out on so much of her life.

• by Heather Elliott
• 6 years ago

I know this poem is from a really long time ago, but I just wanted to tell someone my story...
I hate my dad. He was never there for me and is a drunk, but I still find myself crying alone in my room wanting my dad to come comfort me or to come walk me down the aisle when the time comes. I'm 15. I don't have any father figure. I really wish I did growing up.
My mum is also absent. She doesn't ask me how my day was or comfort me when I cry. She'd rather be with her horses than her own daughter. She always puts me down, and no matter how hard I try, it's not good enough for her. I'm an only child of a single mother who won't talk to me and a dad that isn't there.

• by Step Dad Of 3
• 7 years ago

I want to say to everyone here that it breaks my heart to hear so many stories of pain. I am 32 years old, and I have been married to my wife for 10 years. She had three children from two different men. When we married they were ages 1, 3, and 5, all boys. The two youngest were from the same man. Now they are 10, 12, and 15 years old. I do not have any biological children, and as my wife had her tubes tied after the youngest, it is very unlikely that I ever will. I cannot tell you that being a dad is easy, because it's not. Over the years of supporting my boys in every facet of life, financial, emotional, and everything in between, I have come to love them so much. They are my children, and in my heart they'll always be. At 15, my son and his mother found the bio on Facebook and bio has reached out to my son. He is so conflicted and emotionally hurt from bio's abandonment of him. He has my support in whatever he decides regarding bio, but internally I feel protective and a little jealous.

• by Abraham Moncada
• 7 years ago

I haven't seen my dad in 17 years, and he just came back into my life. I'm in the Army and he just decided to pop back into my life. I don't know what to do. I've gotten this far with my mom, and he wants to be in my life again. Is it too late?

• by Ally Camp
• 7 years ago

I have never met my dad in my life. He left before I was born. I am 13 now and have never seen him. Sometimes I wonder how it would be if I had a father. It is hard seeing all the other girls with their fathers at lunch on Father's Day. But I sit there, and when people ask who is your father, my reply is, "No one, I'm fatherless." The only person that has ever been there for me has been my mom. It is hard to see her struggling to find me school clothes and shoes. Sometimes I feel like I don't have enough love that he was supposed to be there and I cry myself to sleep. I'm scared to ask my mom about him, scared of what she will say. I don't want to have a long story or discussion about him; I just want to know at least his name. I could never ever forgive him. I think to myself, does he even know my name at this point in time? Does he think about me? Do I have brothers or sister that I don't know about? I just want to know if he loves me.

• by Kylee Buchan
• 7 years ago

My father left when I was 8. He went into the military. He said he had to find a better job. I was sad, but I understood. But over the months then years of seeing him once a year, the communication slowed and now he won't text me for 2 to 3 months unless I initiate. I haven't seen him in 2 years. And now he is moving back and acting like he missed nothing. And I am so conflicted, like first I feel pissed off then I feel guilty, then I get sad, then I get pissed again because I am sad, and the cycle repeats.

• by Charlotte Holders
• 7 years ago

I'm 15. My father and mother split up and moved away from each other when I was seven. Then a year later they got back together. Then shortly after, they were slip up and divorced. I acted like I was fine, which tricked my emotions into making me feel that way. My dad was with several women after the divorce. One was a cutter and she made me feel very uncomfortable. Next was a lady who had a child who tried to kill her brother. Next was a Brazilian woman who treated me like crap and talked about me in from of her son and my dad when I left the dinner table. I told my family how badly she treated me and they made him break up with her. He dated her behind my back. My father was an alcoholic throughout all this, and all his girlfriends encouraged his drinking and partying. To this day I remember sitting on the couch when I was young and my father putting his hand up my thigh and I flipped out. He acted like he wasn't going to do anything, but felt uncomfortable.

• by Liv
• 7 years ago

I am 15 years old, about to be 16 in July. I haven't seen my father for the past 11 years. He and are in touch, but it's never consistent. He had been arrested when I was young and has been taking care of my baby sister who is a year younger than me. He tells my mom that he is never able to get in touch with me, but he never once called or texted me. I always have to be the one to say something. Honestly, I don't think he actually cares.

• by Anon
• 7 years ago

I'm 14 years old right now. My dad is currently in jail. My brother told me he'll be there for at least 3 years. I just don't understand. My dad, too, had a father who brought pain to him, so I don't know why he brings pain to my siblings and me. My dad never abused or walked out on my life or never said he loved me. He thinks he's a good dad, but he goes to jail for 8 years then comes back for 6 then goes back. I'm so tired of this. I won't be dancing with him at my quinceanera. He felt the same pain I did, so I don't know why he doesn't this to me. I love and miss you so much, Papa.

• by Ashlea Hunt
• 8 years ago

This poem literally relates to everything my dad has put me through. He has never been there for me. He has made this year in particular a living hell for me and my mum. I will never forget the line "always my father but never my dad." Thank you for this poem, and God bless you.

• by Clarissa
• 8 years ago

I'm 12 and my dad is never there for me. This really upsets me because I have given him multiple chances to be in my life. My dad means a lot to me, and I respect him more than anything, but I guess he just doesn't see that. He got married after he and my mom split up. Since then I guess he just forget about me. I've been dealing with this and keeping my emotions in for 11 years, and I hope that one day he will realize what he's missing out on.
-Clarissa

• by Halle Walker
• 8 years ago

I was 17 years old at the time my father left. He chose to be with his girlfriend who had already broken up with him twice, instead of being a parent to his baby girl. Not only did he all of a sudden abandon me while cussing me out, he also chose to do so only 5 months after my older brother's passing from an overdose. The betrayal I felt will never go away.

• by S.J. McGee
• 8 years ago

My father split before I was 2, I'd receive letters only when he was in prison until I was 9. As far back as I can remember, I had fantasized what it would be like to have him in my life, what it would be like once we finally reunited. I'd close my eyes and see a faceless man walking me down the aisle on my wedding day, I imagined what a wonderful grandfather he would be to my future children
I spoke on the phone with him 4/5 times when I was 16, he promised once he came through he'd buy me a train ticket to visit him... Christmas eve 2005 was the last time we spoke. NO ticket was ever purchased. I WAS DONE! Heart broken! I was angry for a really long time. At 23 I decided to give it ONE LAST try. I began an online search, only to find his obituary, he had passed just 8 months prior. I had never felt heartache like this before. How do you grieve the loss of something you've never had? Those fantasies are now gone forever, once again angry and heartbroken.

• by Kira Lynn Marie Ritchie
• 8 years ago

I'm 11, my parents never really got along. My dad was never really there. Now I understand that since they split up I'll never have the life I need. I need my real dad and mom. When I was younger I would do a lot with them but now my family is falling apart for those who have this problem, address it now so that in the future you'll understand.

• by Jayce Baker, California
• 9 years ago

My story is kinda the same. Well I am 16 about to make 17 in just one month, and my father never really was in my life. Let's start off by saying this, I don't think that he wants me and the reason that I say that is because recently, me and my mother have been homeless, living from shelter to shelter, maybe even sometimes in the hospital bathroom floor, and let me tell you it is not easy. I cry every time because to know that my father is married which I just recently found out, he has a step daughter and he just built a house. So my mother calls him and asks him can I come and live with him just until she gets back onto her feet, he texts her back and says no. So at this point my mother has to threaten him to tell him she is going to drop me off in front of his house and just leave me there. I don't understand what did I ever do to him to make him feel this way towards me, so I recently texted him and told him that I would never look at him as an father figure.

• by Brianna Smith, Vermont
• 9 years ago

This poem meant something to me because my father left my mother when I was only three years old. My mom was a victim of abuse, but she's free from his abuse now, and has been since I was three. He doesn't even know who I am which truly breaks my heart. He has many of his own problems, but I just don't get it sometimes. Anyways, I write poetry as well. It helps me when I'm overthinking, or even thinking about my father, or anything. I love the feeling that poetry gives me. It gives me the courage to say what I feel!

• by Daniel Jones
• 10 years ago

I know full well my daughters and sons feel this way. My story is different, and not my fault. After my divorce, the child services somehow got involved, and all of the kids were taken. I recently bumped into a caseworker outside of the stat's offices, and she said there was no reason for the kids to be taken. I know full well that after 17 years, I am no longer family. I am just someone that has some kids out there. They also know it wasn't my fault, but that does not relieve the pain of the loss. Something was taken from us that we can never get back, and there seems to be no point in trying to build a relationship with any of them. They are on their own, and they do not need me, and never will. I am no longer their Dad, and I never will be again.

• by J P, Washington
• 10 years ago

I'm 14, and this really got to me. My mom thinks that my father actually might've tried to kill me more than once when I was a newborn. And it got to me even more in the part where it said that she had a dad. Whereas I've got nobody, even though my mom has another husband, he's not really a dad to me.

• by Daniel Jones
• 10 years ago

I went through a divorce 17 years ago. There were 7 kids, 4 were mine. Another family full of busybodies had actually caused the divorce, they couldn't stand to see a good thing flourish. Child services stepped in and took all for no reason, except the money they get for doing so. I was kicked to the curb, and never heard a peep for seventeen years. My oldest son recently located me, and I have also reunited with my firstborn daughter. It is not going well, to say the least. Somewhere, I seem to have lost the ability to be a dad. From everything I see, I am not their dad and only their father, but it's not my fault. None of it was, none of the children were ever abused.
I can no longer expect to be a dad after this long. I love them, but I didn't raise them. They are not really mine. As much as it hurts, it is the truth. I cannot claim them as mine, nor can they claim me as a dad.

• by Meagan Liz, Arizona
• 10 years ago

I'm 13 years old and this poem really hit me hard. I was balling my eyes out. My mom met my father in Australia and they had a thing. She came back to America and found out she was pregnant so she emailed him and informed him. He decided he wanted absolutely nothing to do with me. He actually wanted my mom to get an abortion but she refused. I wish that my father would of been there for big milestones and to celebrate my accomplishments with me. To be at my cheer competitions, NJHS ceremonies, eighth grade promotion. But I guess I'm not important enough to him :(

• by Ady, California
• 10 years ago

I need an advice. I need to know if am acting selfish. My daughter is 8 years old. Her dad move to Texas. It has been 2 years now. My daughter sees my husband like her dad she calls him daddy!!. My daughters dad is coming to visit this week. My daughter is back in school and he plans to spend all time possible. My problem is why this month.? Why not when she was out for summer? Why can't he come to my house and talk to her and ask her to go with him? I feel I have to force her to go to grandma for him to see her. I don't mind but my daughter is not so happy about this. I feel stressed out she's not a baby no more. She's growing too fast and he's not aware of all of her changes why? Because he doesn't call. How can I bend my arms and make everything easy for him. When all these years it's been that way. Am I WRONG!!!..

• by Karen Carter, California
• 10 years ago

My father left my brother, sister and I when we were small children. Our mother raised us best she could. She was busy working to put food on the table for us. This affected my brother the most, out Dad was his buddy, his friend, his mentor. I being the oldest girl, saw the effects it had on my brother, and I was so deeply hurt. My little sister was so young she barely remembers anything. It's tough on us all, boy or girl, because when the foundation of your youth is yanked from under your feet when your a little kid, it's hard to figure out what a foundation is. And even harder, LOVE. Our Parent's are our universe when we are little, and when one or both are gone, it's heart crushing. We as children think we were not good enough for that parent who left. But it's NOT us, it was the absent parent with the problem, they had issues, they missed out, they have to live with missing out. But all is not lost. You will know a Father's LOVE someday, Pray-Have-Faith Our Father is waiting for us.

• by Uk
• 10 years ago

Hi. My situation is some what different. I have a daughter who is now 23 never met her or know what she looks like, she was kind of stolen from me by her mother as she went back to her husband and agreed to bring the child up as his own, I had no say in there decision they made that was over 23 years ago, I was 22 at the time. I tried to change her mind but her husband had the final say and that was that, the mother had made contact with me 3 years later by letter saying she didn't love her husband and still loved me and wanted to meet but we didn't because I didn't want to go through the same situation again. Anyhow we didn't meet but now I want to meet my daughter, I've got an addy I even parked outside the house for a few hours that day. While I was waiting I'm pretty sure I saw her but not 100% but what I did do was post a letter through the letter box, that was a week ago. I've have no response as yet, as to this day I don't think my daughter knows anything about this at all. It's like it's just one big dirty secret that should never be spoken about, so in my case I was used so she could get pregnant because he couldn't even to this day. I still think about the child, I will send another letter again if no joy will sent one to my daughter maybe that will get the ball rolling.
So not every father walks away from a child I was forced away which made me a better person now I'm a lot older and wiser. I do hope that by me contacting her after all these years we can find each other and get to know each other finally before it's to late in my life time, she needs to know.

• by Herman
• 10 years ago

My father never left, he's still married to my mom. He's a pretty famous lawyer. Our neighbor taught me to ride a bike. My uncle taught me how to swim, way later than my cousins. My other uncle took me to a rugby match once. He also took me to a car race once. My dad never came to any sports days, piano recitals, horse riding shows. I had lessons in horse riding, but he was never there. He never asked me once what I was interested in, what my opinion was, what I believe. He never told me his beliefs either. He never took me anywhere but some dead religious church where you're not allowed to smile or enjoy anything. Once in the car on the way to our farm, he called his friend in the middle of my sentence and talked on the phone with him for over an hour.

• by Canada
• 10 years ago

I was also touched by this story because I just recently found out that I am the father of an adult daughter and I am heart broken that I was not there for her during her childhood years.

• by Destiny Ballinger, Texas
• 10 years ago

My Dad and I got in a huge fight last night and he told my mom that it was either going to be me or him that was going to die when he got ahold of me and he said he was for sure it wasn't going to be him. I said go ahead do it because I already lost my Real Mom and My Brothers and Sisters and I was loosing him. I asked him why He was doing this to me when he didn't even know I was his when I was a baby so I got up and left and when he tried to hit me my aunt and her baby walked in and he put his hand down and I left. We haven't been talking since then.

• by South Africa
• 10 years ago

I read this and wandered if this girl perhaps is unaware of the truth. I have a brother who was married to a witch of a women. Unfortunately they could not live together and had to part ways. The mother always brainwashed the little girl in thinking that her Dad doesn't care about her. She was the selfish one who caused the breakup in the marriage and the suffering of the child.

• by TC Hamilton, Australia
• 10 years ago

I've just turned 16 and I was looking for my Father for 2 years. I always thought he didn't want me, thought that maybe I wasn't good enough, I thought that there was something wrong with me.

• by Gustavo David Espinoza
• 10 years ago

I'm 17 years old I have never met my Dad he was never there for me when I needed him around and I sometimes lay on my bed and cry because I need him. I don't really know why he left. Growing up all I had was a Step-Dad as a kid I thought that he was my real Dad, until one day my mom told me he wasn't my real dad that he was only my step dad, but growing up I knew him as my real Dad and I thank God for him for taking care of me and my twin brother. Even though its been 17 years and I haven't seen him. I still feel pain when people tell me "At least I have a dad" I break down in tears because they don't know how painful it is for someone to say that to me. But its okay even though I no longer have a step dad I have to learn things from My mom my mom is the strongest person I know for playing both parts.

• by Bella Estrada
• 11 years ago

My dad was never around he cheated on my mom and due to his physical abuse towards her he was imprisoned. He has never been there for me but my step dad always has this poem made me cry because of how true it was.

• by Sarah, Soth Africa
• 11 years ago

I really relate to this story because, I'm a 12 year old girl, and my father has never been there for me. Today is my birthday and he never called, no communication whatsoever. Apparently my mom refused to give him my number, but if he cared, he would have insisted. My mom is awesome, but there's a hole in your heart that only a dad can fill. Not a father, a dad. I'll always have a father, I'll never have a dad

• by Has
• 11 years ago

My dad doesn't love me. He calls me whore for no reason. I always wanted him to hug me when I'm sad. What he does is making me more sad. I wanted him to tell him I did great. But he never did. He says that to every other cousin of mine. But not me. He insults me saying 'You are not good enough' in front of everyone. It is very difficult for me to pretend that I'm happy when I'm not. But I'm trying my best. This is not about a step father. This is about my own father.

• by Alexis F., Florida
• 11 years ago

When I was younger I would ask you for something and you would simply respond did you earn it and I would think of a way to prove that I did. Back then I used to think, damn you really want me to earn everything I'm given. You are really trying to make me set goals and morals for myself, how cool and sweet of you. But now that I'm older, I realize when you asked that question "did you earn it?" You weren't asking for the reasons I thought. You were asking because.. you really didn't know the answer. You didn't know if I earned it or not. You weren't around enough to know if I did or not. You couldn't tell me first hand if I was naughty as a child , you probably don't even know that I was picked on in 5th grade. You didn't know that back then I had major self-esteem issues. You didn't know because you weren't there. You didn't know me then and now you're trying to know me and tell me what's best for me...But you cant..you don't know me. You would send money when I needed it and that was great. I really appreciate it..always will. But money was never what I truly wanted, I wanted a daddy to, you know, call daddy. Frankly it's too late. I don't need a "daddy" figure now. Those days are gone and you missed out. I'm 18 and right now you should be sitting back and admiring what you raised and feeling really proud but you can't. You didn't raise me. You deserve no credit. You were money in my life but you weren't there to hold me when I was upset. Money isn't the only way to show love you know, but that's the only way I felt loved by you.

• by Maria M., Calif.
• 11 years ago

Loved your poem. I recently found my biological father. He had no idea that I existed. I am 56 years old. The man that I thought was my father died when I was 16 years old. He also thought he was my father and he was a great man. Not only did he raise me, he raised 4 other children that my mother had when she married him. He treated them as if they were also his. When he died, my mother told me that he might not of been my bio dad. She gave me some info about him but the name she gave was mixed up. 40 years later by some miracle I find this guy am able to do a DNA test he is my biological father. He seems like a nice guy but his son won't let him talk to me. He is 81 yrs old and time is not on my side. All I want is some information that can be useful to me and my children like medical ancestry etc. When I try talking to anyone else they all say to drop it and leave him alone. As the poem says, he may be my father but he's not my daddy.

• by Keanon, Sa
• 11 years ago

I relate 100% to this poem, although I'm a guy - I went through the same thing you went through. My dad never wanted me, he didn't even want my mum to go through with the pregnancy. I never knew him but my grandmum talked about him a lot when I went to visit her, she was the only one who was there for me when he wasn't. I live with my mom and step-dad as well, and my step-dad has been my real dad ever since I was born, basically. My mom already had me and thought she would be a single mum all her life. But he married her and loved me endlessly to this day. He taught me every single thing I know and he still continues to do so. My father doesn't even care about me. He sends me messages when its my birthday. And never again - he thinks money can buy over a child's love for their father, I'll never forgive him, ever, cause he's a coward and a terrible person. He has two kids with another woman, who doesn't even know who I am. I love this poem, thank you.

• by Rainbow Brite, Nottingham
• 11 years ago

I feel for everyone that found themselves in a position where they didn't feel supported or loved by their dads. Mine was there but he was irresponsible and a bully. He used to hit us, threaten us, when I was older he stole from me, forged my signature to get his hands on more money and disowned me when I tried to protect myself. We're ok now, but I really hate Fathers Day because I never know which part I should be thankful for!!

• by Kristen Stacy, Riverside C.A.
• 11 years ago

I can relate. For 17 years of my life he wasn't there and then he wanted to get in contact with me. So, I spent 3 years with him in Pennsylvania. It was a waste of my time. He cared about nothing but himself and his drinking/drug addiction. I feel sorry for my half brother and sister that I left behind who still have to live with him. I left to better myself and to start my life and dreams of becoming an artist, all of which was always downed and ridiculed because I'm a "failure as an adult".

• by Deja, Tn
• 11 years ago

Wow...this poem really made me think about how my biological father never got to do those things for or with me. I've never actually got to meet him but sometimes I got depressed because my mom told me he wanted her to get an abortion when he heard she was pregnant with me. I always became depressed thinking why he never wanted me but at least I know my mom loves me, and that's all I really needed. I have an awesome stepfather though and he makes Mommy and me happy. He loves us and we love him. For six years my mom was a single mother working two jobs and trying to take care of me, and as an only child I was really lonely, but then my stepfather married my mom and now we're a happy family of three. Recently, my biological father has contacted my mom saying how he doesn't even remember my Mom being pregnant with me. He didn't believe I'm his biological daughter but I don't care because to me he's just a stranger. I don't have any type of feelings toward him.

• by Juen, Coleen
• 11 years ago

It really touched me and I actually cried when starting reading this. My story is like this my father has the worst attitude ever, he always drinking beer at night. I/We his children never felt his love for us. He always hurting my mom:( I'm living now in my grandfathers house because I treated him like my real Dad, and don't live with my parents because they're always quarreling, then a horrible night came, my mother came into my grandpa's house at 12 am, we are all sleeping and I heard her screaming my name and my grandpas name. She said "Coleen!!! Open the door, then I shocked I was really nervous and my feet are shaking because my mom is crying and she said my father hurt her again, she said "Call people; Hurry"! Then I called the police. And I'm really shaking. I hugged my mother and whispers to her said "Mom don't worry, we will be here for you" (crying) then the police came. My mother go to Police Station with the policemen. That was my story. :((

• by Leeroy W.
• 11 years ago

What a beautiful poem, I can feel every word. GREAT job to you "ALLYSA" bless your heart!!

• by Cassie, NYC
• 11 years ago

I was taken away from my father, and he never once tried coming to look for me or fight, now after 12 years I moved in with him, being 15 and he's said some really hurtful things and drinks al the time and doesn't care, but now I realize, some guys are just sperm donors and aren't meant to be dads which is why other men step up. It hurts, believe me I know, but if you let it run your life, you'll regret it, he or any deadbeat dads are not worth your time or your tears :)

• by Sasha, KY
• 11 years ago

Wow, your poem sounds like something my kids would write. Except for the stepdad since I refuse to date until my girls are grown. I don't want them to have anymore heartache from a man so I am just being extra cautious. It's amazing that a man could put his own children last and not give a crap. Your poem is nice and I hope you found some comfort and healing in writing it and expressing your feelings. God bless to all the kids going through this same thing.

• by Lost Child
• 11 years ago

Hey I love your poem. I'm glad you had someone to call daddy. I never had a father and my stepfather was never my daddy either. How sad it's an empty space in me. I'm 31 and only saw my father twice. The first time I was 15, the second I was 22. He has never cared and never will. It hurts. I tried to move on and not think about it but its like an emptiness in me.

God bless you

• by Jessica, IL
• 12 years ago

My father had lived with my mom and brother since my brother was born. He never wanted to be a "Dad" and all he cared about was his habits. Even when we lived together he never play with us. My father was a kid who only cared for himself and always will. I was 20 when my mom finally left him. A month or two after she left I got into a car accident and I called him to tell him what happened and all his cared to talk about was a playhouse he was building and he didn't even ask if I was okay or that he was glad I was alive because it was a bad accident. My going to be soon step-dad who I only knew for a couple weeks cared more than my own father. What is worst is that he has lived with me and doesn't know one thing about me.

• by Lenn, RI
• 12 years ago

My dad chose to take my step mother back even after she looked me in the eyes at age 8 and said, "it's all that stupid little girls fault" as she attempted to commit suicide. I was 8 what could I have done to make someone do that. It literally haunts me EVERYDAY. I don't talk to him anymore because she doesn't like him talking to me.

• by Neyra, California
• 12 years ago

It's what I have been saying, I actually knew my father. But when he cheated on my mom, everything went downhill. He was there afterwards but when he went back to the lady he had cheated on, basically he forgot about us my little sister and me. He didn't even call on my 18th birthday, he called me two weeks after my birthday. Because of him I was diagnosed with depression. My friends, family, music and the stories that I write are the only thing that keeps me going for my future. And like you said he will always be my father but he will never be my dad. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!

• by Isabella, San Diego
• 12 years ago

This is a really touching poem. I have never gone through this but can understand how you feel. You should rap it.

• by Caitlen, Washington
• 12 years ago

This made me cry because it tells exactly my "relationship" with my father, he was never there and my moms boyfriend took over the spot of being my dad. He was the dad he didn't have to be and treated my brother, sister, and I like we were his own. At 14 years old I decided to just give up on my father though I wasn't going to let myself be hurt once more by someone who was never in my life, but I still wonder what it would be like if he was in my life.

• by Jessica, Fl
• 12 years ago

I love this poem.. I didn't have a step-dad myself so I really hope that your stepfather gave you everything that your dad couldn't.

• by Steve, Uk
• 12 years ago

My father left me since I was born. My mother won't talk about him. There has been so many times I needed him for guidance and comfort. Always I felt so alone. Bitter . My mum refuses to help me to find him and use me as her mental punch bag.

My whole life ruined. I ran away because it was the only thing I could do to stay sane. Now, I realize both my parents are selfish. When I pushed for answers , all I ever get are more lies and disrespect.

Some people don't deserve to have kids. It's all about money and that's it.

• by Tiffany, New York
• 12 years ago

I never knew anything about my father until 4 years ago when I found he was still alive and I had a step brother and half sister and half baby brother whose bday fell on my mine and even after discovering he was still alive I only ever received one message from him and that's it he still hasn't tried to contact me or send a letter or anything and 21 years later it still effects me. It's still the only thing that brings me to tears instantaneously. Reading this poem expressed how I feel inside thank you for writing this one day I hope to cope with the absence of my father.

• by Claire
• 12 years ago

My father, not that he even deserves to be called that, left my mum when I was 8 months old, leaving her with 3 daughters to raise by herself. I grew up with no male figure. Now I'm 19 and can't stay in a relationship because I'm scared that they'll do the same as my father. My mum has finally found someone 6 years ago and I have a little brother that looks up to me...

• by Linda
• 12 years ago

My husband visits his daughter when he can which isn't often because he can't afford it. It is very hard on him because his daughter's mum tells her in sneaky ways that he visits only when it's convenient for him. She thinks of her step dad as her favorite dad because my husband can't be there for her as often. He has mentioned many times that she might be better off without him. One time he called to talk to her and her mum answered and said your father is on the phone do you want to talk to him or go get ice cream with daddy Mike? She said "I want ice cream" and then her mum laughed and said "you heard her" and then hung up. He is very close to washing his hands of all of them. He knows she will hate him later but he doesn't feel that he should have to be emotionally abused when she doesn't care much about him anyway.

• by Aploniah. South Africa
• 12 years ago

This poem is so touching, well, here's my story: the thing with me is that my father never left us, he's still here with us now even...I mean he was there physically..but that's where it ends!...I mean, we never really felt like we had a dad, you know "a daddy" we only had a father...we can't talk to him about anything, he doesn't give us advice like normal dads do...worst part is: HE HAS NEVER TOLD US HE LOVED US! I mean my eldest sister is 26, and she has never heard the words "I love you" from our dad...we only know the meaning of love because of our mom..she's the best thing that's ever happened to us. I'm 13 now and it's the time of my life that I really need a dad..you know, to help me look at life in a good perspective...we have tried to get along with him but it just doesn't work out! I know I'm lucky to have met him and I'm thankful for that...I just wish that I had somebody to call "daddy" and be proud of calling him that...I still have a very long journey to go through and I wish I had a daddy to go through it with..

• by Megan
• 12 years ago

No matter what the reason for being separated, there is always compromising to see your child. I had a horrible childhood. My father came around only when it was convenient. He never helped my mother with my siblings and myself. And YES he was able and neglected to do so. Now as a single mother of two little girls, with a father similar to what I had. I make excuses for him, so they do not feel neglected by the man that GAVE Them Life! Our situation is very sad honestly, my girls call and beg for their father to visit them being that we live only 45 mins away, only to be turned down and told every excuse in the book as to why he unable. Please choose your words wisely when leaving comments..

• by Linda, Miami
• 12 years ago

Wow, this really touched me because my father left me and my brothers and I use to sit outside waiting for him to pick me up every week and he was never there. He missed 3 years never called me once to ask if I was ok. All my birthday's he missed out and the one day he come and giving us money money doesn't cover for all those days he missed out. I still remember asking my mom, "mommy where is daddy?" Well you know were he was? Having another daughter.

• by Greg Tucker
• 12 years ago

There are fathers who are shunned by their children when mommy separates, moves away, lies to you, or just didn't even tell your "baby daddy" about you.
I'm willing to bet that if your dad had tried to be involved then you would not have appreciated a damn thing about it. One of you said he gave you the greatest gifts by walking away. Maybe that was his intention and it broke his heart when he did it and has never felt so permanently incomplete since. Ever hear of sacrifice? That's the ultimate act of love. Your dad gave you life. Appreciate at least something about him.

• by Columbia Tennessee
• 12 years ago

When I was 10 years old a family member let it slip that my dad wasn't my biological father. Over the years my mom tried to explain to me the best she could about why I had never known my biological father but I never understood how anyone could leave their child. I am 22 now and I have 2 kids of my own and I have met the man that left me all those years ago. After seeing him and talking with him I realize that by him leaving me, he gave me the greatest gift. My daddy, he has been there for me since I was a baby, he is and always will be my dad and father. He adopted me and that is the best feeling in the world to know he never had to but he wanted to always be there for me. This poem touched my heart and there will never be enough thanks for the men who step up and become fathers and dads to children who otherwise would be without!

• by South Africa
• 12 years ago

I'm 24 years old, I don't know my father, don't even know his name... My mom won't even tell me a thing about him because in African culture children are not allowed to question their parents... My step dad abused me even tried to hang me once, he and my mom have since separated. I wish I knew my dad. I'm so suicidal and bitter. I pray for the strength to make it through 2012

• by Columbus Ohio
• 13 years ago

My kids dad does not call or see them I don't stop him from being a part of them he chooses not to. Then 2 1/2 years ago I got with Garrett and we have a son together but he is a great dad to my other kids as well they love him so much thanks Garrett for being a great daddy

• by Sister Lydia
• 13 years ago

I love this poem. I had the greatest dad in the world but I commiserate with you because I had a rotten husband who brought grief and death to our children. Why can't some men just get it right?

• by Anna Kotzè, South- Africa
• 13 years ago

This is so honest and true and it doesn't only touch hearts but acts as a warning. It should be included in the Bible @ Psalms :)

• by Ursula Cooper
• 13 years ago

Wow... this poem almost had me in tears, and that's saying something because I barely ever cry. I guess it just made me realize how lucky I am growing up with both my parents there and the rest of my amazing family. I've never really looked at it that way before, my dad annoys me sooooo much sometimes, I just feel like I want to run and hide, wishing that it would just go away, but after reading this poem it made me think. I guess I'll try a bit harder now to make everything good between us. thanks for making me see. I rate this poem 11/10. amazing!!!!! :)

• by Jose, Yonkers NY
• 13 years ago

This story hit me cause my daughter can say those words to me but not because I was never there, it's because her mother remarried after 3 years of trying to get back together with me but decided when she remarried that I no longer deserved my daughters love and share in life. It's been over 2 years since I last spoke with my little girl, her mother disappeared with her new husband and my daughter and I have absolutely no info on my daughter's whereabouts or well being who by the way lives somewhere in Puerto Rico while I live in New York.

• by Emma
• 13 years ago

This sounds so much like me. My father left when I was five and my neighbor was more of a father to me than he ever was. He was the one who taught me to ride a bike. He was the one who built me up when I had a good report card. He was the one who taught me to be a strong independent young woman and to be an overall good person. And he was the one who was going to walk me down the aisle. He passed away three months ago and I miss him everyday. I love you, David, with all my heart and I miss you! And, Dad, it's not too late to step up.

• by Clare, Duncan BECAUSE
• 13 years ago

I wish my dad was there for me when I was born and to take care of me but he wasn't. My mom raised me on her own, single mother of 3. My brother is one person I use to look up to and now he's gone. I miss him so much, he was the one that I asked for advice for anything. My dad didn't come see me until I was a preteen, I get to see him but not as often. I want to be proud to have a dad, but I'm just happy enough to get to call him that and see him when I can I guess. It's sad, my children have to go through the same, their father doesn't want to see them, they started too, then they stopped, now they just have my partner that they look up to, so now I cut off all visitations and access because they don't need that grief anymore! They will make their choice one day. They will have questions and I will have answers.

• by Shabina
• 13 years ago

Same, my father was never there for me and I had no brother or sister, so grown up on my own, my step dad is there but never is same, he has own kids, there will always be a empty space, wish he never had a child if he couldn't give child love

• by Alyssa
• 13 years ago

This poem really touched my heart, my father left me when I was a baby and never wanted to even see me or talk to me. He was in and out of jail my whole life. I grew up knowing he wasn't there but knowing my moms boyfriend was and so he is the only one there, so I think he deserves to be called dad by me so I did. This poem is excellent thanks for sharing 5 stars!

• by David, Northeast
• 13 years ago

I just stumbled across this site and after reading this poem, I cried. So many girls want their fathers to be in their lives, but they could care less. I'm a father who desperately wants to be in my daughter's life, but she wants nothing to do with me. We were separated when she was just a baby by a cruel act of betrayal. We met one time a couple of weeks ago after 16 long years. It doesn't look like we'll ever see each other again. Nothing hurts so much like your own baby girl not wanting you.

• by Mallory, The South.
• 14 years ago

This poem made me cry I just found my dad and he told me he doesn't want anything to do with me after 19 years of him not talking to me but he talked to my step sister. He wasn't even my father he was nothing. Take my advice if they aren't in your life there is a good reason for it and they're not worth your time, tears, or anger. They will never be good enough for you and they are just like men that you date can't trust them, they break your heart, and in the end they were just a waste of your time.

• by Michelle, Texas
• 14 years ago

I never had my dad in my life either. I always had my moms boyfriend or ex husbands to depend on. I wish my real dad could have been there as me and my 2 siblings were growing up, but no matter how much I wished for it he was never there. like it says he will always be my father but NEVER my dad

• by Pauline, N.Ireland
• 14 years ago

How sad, I never met my real dad till I was 15. I visited him several times but then got married and had kids. He never visited me once. Never sent me anything and probably does not even know when my birthday is and that easy it's boxing day. Lol he never remembers how many kids I have never mind their names.
Some dads are a waste of space. I hope you had a happy life, his loss.

• by Crystalina
• 14 years ago

Wow, this poem touched me because I grew up with a step dad I considered him my father till my real dad tried coming into my life.

• by J-Lean
• 14 years ago

This really touched me tears were about to drop but not a single tear will I drop for the man who left me and my brothers behind. Someone else took his place and now after so many years he comes back giving us only money.. money doesn't cover up for all the time he was gone that is not a dad yea he's my father but NEVER will he be my dad!!

• by Jessica, CA
• 14 years ago

Wow this poem really touched me because I grew up with a step-dad and never knew my own real dad...I rate this 5 stars...