Get Out of Jail, Free

Get Out of Jail, Free

Get Out of Jail, Free

It's good to got through old files. I had written this for my son John (named after my father's father, who was a mechanical engineer; my second son is named after my mother's father, Ben Gardiner). I had seen this idea on TV or the web or something and was really impressed by the fathering.

Originally published here, where comments are allowed:

Johnny, I just want you to know that whatever might happen to you, whatever mistakes you might make, you can always talk to me about anything. If there is ever anything that you are afraid to tell me about, remind me that I once wrote this card for you and then don't hesitate to tell me. Everyone faces difficult situations and makes their own mistakes.

While I cannot fix everything, whatever circumstances seem impossible or whatever you have done that may seem unforgivable, I always want to be here for you, to give you suggestions and advice based on my experiences in life, though you are always free to make your own decisions.

I hope you never have to use
this card you get from me,
but if you do, I hope you choose
to come and talk to me.

It doesn't matter what you've done,
or how ashamed you may be.
When you cannot tell anyone,
you should talk to me.

Life is hard, I can't deny
sometimes there's no good choice.
So, when you need a helping hand,
I want to hear your voice.

I love you more than you could know,
from summits to the sea.
So, when you slip or if you fall,
please come and talk to me.

When you've made the worst mistake
that there could ever be,
remember on this day you read
my ears are always free.

If you feel there is no hope
and no light left to see,
I want to help you learn to cope,
so why not talk to me?

I promise I will forgive you,
and hope you forgive me.
There's nothing stronger than us two,
I write with certainty.

So when your life is out of shape
or you're alone at sea,
or when you feel there's no escape,
get out of jail for free.

More Peter Gabriel seems relevant.