The poem expresses the speaker's hope that their father will provide strength and guidance during difficult times. It asks that the father send strength when the speaker feels like crumbling or giving up, comfort the speaker's aching heart, and remind the speaker of the power of a father's love so they never feel alone. The poem seeks the father's help, motivation, and alteration of thoughts to stay on the right path and overcome hardships, stubbornness, and greed.

1. A Father’s Strength
If I ever begin to crumble or if I have somehow lost my way,
May my Father send me his strength to make it through the day.
If I ever think about giving up or giving in,
May my Father remind me not to worry, but instead to always rely on him.
If I ever start to believe the harsh words of people or fall victim to their games,
May my Father call me silly and tell me to just forget their names.
If I ever wander too far off the path that leads to the person I’m supposed to be,
May my Father grab my hand and shake me for being so easily lost at sea.
If I ever need someone to comfort me or soothe the aching of my heart,
May my Father set fire to the sorrows that have tried numerous times to tear his
daughter apart.
If I ever get too stubborn or refuse to step up to responsibility,
May my Father lend me his motivation for just a day so I can learn from his nobility.
If there’s ever a day that I don’t give thanks or have become too greedy,
May my Father alter my thoughts to get rid of the idea that it’s okay to be so needy.
If somehow I forget the power of a Father’s love or need a reminder that I’m not alone,
May my Father send me comfort from the clouds while he rests upon his heavenly
throne.
-t.j.t.