Papa, I love you

Tariq Ahmed Sheikh, Lahore Pakistan s/o Sheikh Shah Din

When I was young and had nothing but innocence, my father used to treat me as his princess and love me like I was his everything. There were times when my mother and I had a row, and I used to run from her to him. I knew he would be there for me. He used to cuddle me, made me feel loved and then tactfully convinced me to do what my mother said. In the end, he made sure all worked out well.

I always felt that my father was an amazing man. A man who would protect his family and had nothing but love. He used to secretly tell me, he loved me more than my only younger sister. I still remember those times when he'd take me for a bike ride alone and buy me ice-cream after work. There were times when I used to get sick every other fort night, and he'd hold me tight when I got an injection. I was scared but I knew my father was there with me.

I vividly remember when my father would lift me up from the car after we came back from a long journey. He thought I was asleep but I was acting. I just wanted him to hold me in his arms and carry me back to the house from the parking lot. I knew deep within that he knew I was awake. Yet he just loved me as much as I did.

I never dreamt that one day he would be gone from my life. I wish I could tell him on his face how much he means to me. I wish he could touch my heart and feel the love I have for him.

I know I am praying for much.. too much..But could you send back the only man I loved?

I want to hold him in my arms when he feels scared. I want to buy him ice-creams and tell him how much I love him. I want to carry him and show him how it feels to be carried by someone who loves you.

"Papa, I love you. I really do. Every day without you feels weird and lonely. Those once cherished moments haunt me now. I feel like I didnt do anything to show you how much your love meant to me. I know I have made mistakes in my life. I have suffered. But please forgive me. I am not a bad person.

--
Princess