There must come a silence at seventeen, for I hardly know what to say.
To a baby who became a girl, a girl who’s now becoming a woman—what CAN a father say?
The feelings you inspire are simple enough: Pride, of course. A touch of trepidation. Endless gratitude.
And wonder in abundance:
Long distance runner, honour student, graceful pianist, proudly geeky girl;
Young woman of brilliance and beauty and strength…
Where did you come from? What spirit is this?
That my dear daughter must forever be a mystery, and,
This is the silence at seventeen.