Preface
“Dear Cuckoo” is a father’s heartfelt letter to his daughter, written in the form of a poem. It carries the weight of separation, the ache of missing a beloved child, and the quiet pride of watching her grow.
The poem flows between tender confession and loving encouragement. It recalls the father’s own childhood loss, which deepens his fears of distance, yet his faith and devotion transform sorrow into strength. With imagery of trees in the rain and prayers carried across miles, the poem reminds us that love transcends absence.
This work is not just a personal reflection but a universal story of parenthood: the bittersweet journey of letting go while holding on, of trusting that a child will flourish even far away. It is a testimony to enduring love, a father’s voice echoing gently in his daughter’s heart.
This is from my heart to you, my daughter
Dear Cuckoo,
My heart feels heavy each time you go,
Carrying books, dreams, and courage I know.
I wished your laughter stayed close in this place,
But life called you forward to run your own race.
As your father, guilt sometimes speaks to me,
For I never planned this distance to be.
I lost my own parents when I was still small,
And I fear the same silence may cover it all.
Remember, Cuckoo, I offered another way,
A school in this town where you could stay.
But you chose the harder path, brave and bright,
And I feel such pride in your strength and your fight.
Just like a tree that grows strong in the rain,
This journey will teach you through struggle and pain.
Though you live apart, you are never alone,
My prayers reach you wherever you’ve gone.
Amid my sadness, a light still appears,
Joy in your courage outshining my fears.
You earned your place where competition is high,
With wisdom and effort that money can’t buy.
Never forget, Cuckoo, both joy and my care,
I miss you deeply but I’m glad you are there.
For distance may hurt, yet it helps you to see,
The woman you’re shaping yourself to be.
All that I ask is you carry me near,
Not in regret, but in love that is clear.
Keep faith in your heart, keep praying each day,
God’s strength will be with you to guide your way.
Hold fast, my Cuckoo, with courage and grace,
The world may be wide, but you’ll find your place.
And though miles may divide, my love will still stay,
A father’s devotion will not fade away.
With all my love,
Abie
