Thomas Perez

The Man I Would Choose Again

Before I knew the weight of years,

Or what it meant to stand alone,

You were already there — no fears,

A foundation, strong as stone.

You comforted me without a word,

Just presence, warm and true,

In every moment I felt heard,

The way that only fathers do.

You never forced the path I’d take,

Never mapped the roads ahead,

You trusted every choice I’d make,

And walked beside my steps instead.

You showed me what a man should be —

Not in lectures full of pride,

But in the quiet dignity

Of how you lived and how you tried.

You gave up things I’ll never know,

Sacrificed without a sound,

Planted everything to help me grow,

And asked for nothing to be found.

We laughed until our sides would ache,

At stories only we could tell,

Shared the kind of joy that makes

A life worth living — and living well.

I never feared you — not one day,

No shadow cast, no heavy hand,

Just a man who found a way

To help his son become a man.

You were my father, yes, and more —

My closest friend, my truest guide,

The one I’d always find the shore

With, standing faithfully by my side.

So if the world began again,

And I could choose the life I’d live,

I’d search through every where and when —

And choose you still, with all I give.

No title worn with greater pride,

No love more certain, deep, or true —

With every grateful beat inside,

I am honored to be your son,

Dad, I love you!