To My Daughter

For this my eyes do not need their perception.
And memory, now with a guide to drive
As far as possible, into a deep reflection,
Has taken me right through the thick of life.

In it are people placed on different planes.
There’s glory, angst and high regard and torment.
Some faithful, some betraying—all the same.
Your calling, though, is simply—life’s adornment!

You’re made in equal parts for light and air.
You’re—joy and bliss! And by my pen directed,
Could I compose the verse that would compare?
—With syllables not made for hands!

O, be protected:
With love—unblinking, never to be altered—
Upon your path,—the hardest of them all.
When evil breathed into your face, you didn’t falter,
You have become the sweetest to my soul!

No, the most prized! You’re a reward of mine!
True beauty’s image, life in bloom throughout!
Affairs and honor—it’s a gold-less shine—
You more than match them. There can be no doubt!

This light is hidden but it’s known to me,
Look in the mirror and you’ll find the key!