Papi why is it that it’s only when you are sick, laying on a hospital bed,
that you allow me to caress your face?

Why is it that it’s only when you wear a catheter that you can receive touch?

Do you only receive touch through pain?

¿Papi porque eres tan fuerte conmigo?

Aren’t you as strong as my softness can be?

Why is it that you stop listening to me before I speak?

It is only when you listen, that I speak with conviction

It is only when you allow yourself to be soft

that I am happy to be your daughter.

It is only when you are like mami that I can love you.

I kiss your forehead and you smile

your shy broken smile, that I’ve seen so many men carry

a smile  that is scared of life and angry

a smile that rather hide than risk feeling

but it is only when you are like papi that I know how to love you.