Petri Hawkins Byrd may be best known as the bailiff on Judge Judy but his most important accomplishment is being a father.
He explains, 10 years ago I wanted to give my kids (Then 12, 16, 18 and 23 years old) something to hold on to and let them know that I was in this “Father thang” for life. Theirs and mine. Now I pass this on to my grandsons Mateo and Levert. And those I’ve mentored over the years who affectionately (I hope) call me “Pops”.
My child,
If you have need for me today, you only have to call
I’ll be right there to pick you up, should you chance to fall,
You are the apple of my eye, the jewel in my crown,
My arms are here to lift you up and never let you down,
And should you cry out in the night, I’ll be right there to hear
I’ll keep you ‘til the morning light, and so, you need not fear
We’ll laugh until our tummies ache,
Then take a walk down by the lake
And, now and then, give Mom a break
A little love is all it takes,
and so…
If you have need for me today, you only have to call
Love,
Daddy
