"uncle na!" I'd yell out, and jumped on to your back

people would stare and maybe smile 

to know she had a dad

 

adopted (maybe) or step-parent from birth

either way, she's happy

 

to share this story of ongoing hurt

 

my closest friend

my teacher

my uncle

 

my dad

my mom

my brother

my uncle

 

each of these you've been to me

when those so close have hurt to bring

to guide, teach, discipline, and empathize

never inclined to tell me lies