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30 Minutes
by
Edwin Romond


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for my father

Those nights when my father
and I were loading his truck,
I would ask his help
with my seemingly
insurmountable problems
of a twelve-year-old.

And as he lifted crates
on to his hand truck or
rolled heavy drums across
the platform, he'd calmly tell me
how to keep my bike chain
from slipping, how to remember
 
my altar boy Latin, or what to say
to paper route customers
who were late in paying me.
With answers for everything
I stressed about, he seemed
the wisest man in the world.

These nights, I wish I could have
just 30 minutes to talk with him
about growing old in a world
where I am a husband and a father.
I long for more of his loving
wisdom whenever life reminds me

I have so much still to learn.


This poem first appeared in Lips Journal.
Used here with permission.

 


Edwin Romond  is a poet, playwright, and composer. Now retired, he taught English for more than 30 years in Wisconsin and New Jersey. Edwin's award-winning work has appeared in numerous literary journals, college text books, and anthologies, and has been featured on National Public Radio. His newest collection, Man at the Railing, from NYQ Books, recently won the Laura Boss Narrative Poetry Award. A native of Woodbridge, New Jersey, Edwin now lives in Wind Gap, Pennsylvania, with his wife. Learn more about him at www.edwinromond.com.

        

 

 


Post New Comment:
Wilda Morris:
Ah, yes, how I identify with this poem, wishing I could have another 30 minutes with Dad (and/or Mother), and learn more with the benefit of their wisdom.
Posted 05/26/2024 10:38 PM
Joan Luther:
Another moment with a loved one whos no longer with us would be wonderful
Posted 05/25/2024 09:30 PM
Jo:
Yes, the quiet wisdom that Arlene speaks of. I have wished to be able to talk to both my mom and dad so many times.
Posted 05/25/2024 01:38 PM
Lori Levy:
I identify with this poem, too.
Posted 05/25/2024 01:15 PM
Anastasia:
This is wonderful! There are many times I'd like to have just one more chance to chat with my father.
Posted 05/25/2024 01:04 PM
Arlene Gay Levine:
Edwin, this poem touched my heart with quiet wisdom, both your father's and yours.
Posted 05/25/2024 11:46 AM
KevinArnold:
Compelling poem. I recently read an article saying boys in close relationships with their dads get better grades, are less likely to drop out of school. I read thispoem is a paean to your the gifts he gave you.
Posted 05/25/2024 10:02 AM
Larry Schug:
I want my dad back for just a little while, too. I've got questions only he could answer. Very thought-provoking poem to me
Posted 05/25/2024 08:08 AM


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