We all go to him.
His eyes move from dull
to light
when I tell him
we made something
all of us—together—
for him.
I press play.
What do you love about Dad? I ask.
Mom answers:
His generosity. His belief in second chances.
And April:
The way he used to tuck me in.
Made me feel safe.
Me:
How he hums while he cooks.
And James:
His laugh. So deep and contagious.
Mom:
His creative spirit.
April:
How he’ll talk to anyone on the street.
Me:
How he always knows his opinion.
James:
He lectures and people listen.
Mom:
His creations.
April:
How excited he gets about what he loves.
Me:
How he’s always been there for me.
What will you miss most about Dad?
April:
I will miss his hugs.
Mom:
I will miss his smile.
James:
I will miss his eyes.
Me:
I will miss his voice.
I shut off the tape.
All of us crying,
Dad telling us
not to worry,
all four of us
at once.