My Sweetest Memory

I remember when
Nathan and I were ready
For yet another surgery.
I had a wiggly tooth and tonsils that touched
He had a new mystery stain spot
Dotted right next to another.
Daddy kissed my dimple as
The doctor came in with cold hands
And told me to inhale then
Asked me if I could count backwards
Starting at thirty.
Offended by percieved insinuation
That I might lack education
I clung to Daddy's hand
And zipped through the list
Slowing down at
10..9...8....7.....6......
My eyes fluttered shut and
All I can remember is
Daddy kissed my dimple
And told me not to be afraid
Because God would keep me safe.
I awoke hours later in
A small impersonable room
With one less tooth
And a voice scabbed over but
There was no need for me to speak
Because Daddy would know what
My faces and glances mean.
With Nathan tucked between
My body and arm
Daddy kissed my dimple
And gently swept my bangs away
As I drifted asleep
I heard him pray,
"Lord, bless my daughter,
Fill her with your grace,
Lord, she is so little
And yet she already has a taste
For rebellions cuisine
Please Lord, keep her close to me
I pray this with a Father's frightened heart."
As I dreamed I couldn't see
The world he feared I would find myself in
But as I look around
Alert and wide awake
I can see that my idea of life
Is what he asked the Lord
To protect me from that night.
 

Zesty, you asked my what my favorite memory is.. I have three, all tied for first. I will eventually write something about each one. I dedicate this to you because you encourage me relentlessly and help me find new inspiration.