A letter to my Father

I will not insult you by asking why/what made you decided to leave        
As a man, YOU decided that was YOUR best option        
I understand that relationships can be complicated        
however most times we just over complicate things      
       
In spite of you I've learned:        
How to tie a tie        
Always wear laced shoes with a suit      
Keep my shoes polished        
A crisp white shirt is the foundation to any wardrobe
To walk on the curb of the side of the street when walking with a woman        
To never strike a woman ... no matter what      
First impressions are lasting ones      
Money matters only when its misused
       
To always look a man in his eyes      
A firm handshake stands for something      
To look like a million bucks even when I've only pennies in my pocket  
       
My presents should be felt just by my entering a room and not from the sound of my voice      
While cursing might be the sign of an uneducated man      
It will back a bitch off you .... when used properly      
       
That respect is earned      
To stand-up for what's right even when your standing alone      
To know when to walk away      
       
To offer my seat on a crowded bus        
To love as if it's my last day on earth      
That a true friend is one who offer's his hand in time of need    
       
To stand straight and speak with a tone of authority      
To be a man of my word      
To be proud of what I've done in life      
To learn from my mistakes      
Treat your mother with the utmost respect; during good and bad times       
Most of these things, I should have learned from you      
It's kind of ironic that the strongest figure in my life was a WOMAN trying to teach me to be a MAN      
       
I thank you for giving me life but because of her I know      
       
I am the master of my faith        
I am the captain of my soul      
       
Sorry you missed out     
     
Truly        
Your son