Mi Niña,
I'm Dad!

That is the original version of the poem. It is exclusively for you.
Only you have seen this version. Eventually I will create a revised version for the public (in a year or two).

From that poem, I have created a song. This is the original song and lyrics. Just like the poem, this one is exclusively for you. A revised version will come out for the public at the same time as the poem.

To finish the song is next. It is fairly clear if you just want to listen. Otherwise, the lyrics are there to follow along. However, keep in mind that it is me writing to you. Thus, the video shows me how I see you. It may not show you what I see, but I tried.

Mi Niña,

You’re my daughter. Don’t call me Papá.
I am not him; I’m your Dad, and I’m sad.
Sad for the times I couldn’t be there,
The Christmases lost, times we could(n't) be there.

I missed your Christmases, year after year,
Not just the gifts, I missed being near.
It may seem I’m trying to make it all right,
But I’m here now, holding on tight.

You deserve respect, proper love, and care,
A future so bright, with joys to spare.
I may not catch you before you fall,
But I’ll lift you up, through it all.

One day, I hope that you’ll come to see,
Through my actions, how much you mean to me.
You’re worth more than my life, beyond all measure,
A priceless jewel, my great treasure.

I hope you’ll understand the sacrifices made,
The dreams I shelved, the price I paid.
Violet, all I ask is for you to try:
Work hard, aim high, and reach the sky.

You deserve respect, proper love, and care,
A future so bright, with joys to spare.
I may not catch you before you fall,
But I’ll lift you up, through it all.

I miss the days you found comfort in me,
Your Dad’s arms were where you’d be.
The days you’d run to Dad with pride,
When I was your hero, by your side.

But you’re growing up, as daughters do,
And I’m proud of the woman I see in you.
Still, as long as I breathe and can stand tall,
Even when my hair’s like snow in the fall,
I’ll always be there, steady and true,
And you’ll always be my little girl, too.

One more thing…
Forgive me for if I can’t be
The good dad you deserve,
But I'm all there's left of me.
Merry Christmas, 

With All The Love I Can Serve, (love)
Carlos(is) Dad.