For the Love....

It might've taken me a while
to finally decide to love you.
First, you had to prove your devotion.
I needed to learn and experience all of the things you could do for me.
I needed to test you.
I needed proof.
I'm sure it didn't take long.
And, when I finally decided you were worth loving, I loved you with all of my heart,
and never stopped.
I will never stop.
Strong and protective, you were a force to be reckoned with where I was concerned.
You taught me a lot of things about life; sacrifice, discipline, and responsibility.
But mostly, love.
There were times when I was pretty sure you were wrong about everything.
Yet, after the smoke cleared...I found you were right all along. Back then it was hard to admit, but I'm older, and it's much easier now.
I know you think I don't need you like I did then, but nothing could be farther from the truth.
I will always need you.
You are my hero.
I love you, Dad.