Tough Love Poem

 A parent's tough love shines so bright,
A son's rebellion, a testing night.
Sneaking out, a path of strife,
A father's patience worn thin with life.

He waits in bed, a surprise in store,
A scare, a shock, a wake-up call once more.
Plywood on the window, a barrier strong,
No more escape, a lesson to be learned all day long.

The doorknob turned, a lock in place,
A safe confinement, a steady gaze.
A father's presence, a guiding light,
In classrooms too, a constant sight.

A message clear, a warning true,
"I'll make your life harder, if you don't see this through."
A son's gratitude, years later told,
A Marine Corps retirement, a college degree to hold.

Tough love's reward, a life on track,
A parent's pride, a son's gratitude to pack.
A story shared, a lesson to impart,
Tough love's power, a loving parent's heart.