Qualia

This morning, my daughter asked for my hand to hold 

As I held it, I thought that there would come a day when I’m old 

And would be asked to give it away 

With a smile that’s on par with sunrays 

And a tiny palm 

To keep me calm 

I can’t help but question 

If I’m teaching her the right lessons 

To prepare for the life that’ll try to steal her innocence 

Do I give her a reward and consequence 

Based off her actions 

Or do I teach her to cope with its disappointments with distractions 

“Do that, instead of this” 

“Be wary of who you befriend and kiss” 

Too many rules may turn her into a rebel 

But as I crouch down at her eye level 

I see a strength within her soul 

That let’s me know that no one’s ever gonna deter her goals