Dear Dad,
I write to you not only as your daughter, but as one of many daughters who know the unique intricacies of the lessons only their fathers could teach them. I write to you because out of every helping hand I have received in this world, you receive the least amount of credit and praise for the things you do. You’re unarguably the most intelligent, meekest and kind hearted individual I know. You’ve always, always stood back and let us shine, only stepping in when I call for you knowing you can’t be more than a short distance away. It’s time I use these words, this gift God has given me, to pull you and every other remarkable father into the light you so deserve to be seen in. It’s time that light radiates on the genuine and extraordinary love only you could have shown me.
A father teaches his daughter many lessons about what it means to truly love and experience this life. One of the most critical understandings he can portray to the young eyes beaming up at him is the notion of how she should be treated. Dad, I remember everything. I remember being lifted up the couch, after falling asleep while watching tv, sometimes I pretended to be asleep just so I could be carried. I remember your kisses on my forehead when I run to welcome you from a trip. I remember you patiently waiting for me at 19th street junction for me to get back from choir practice, I remember how you ran to hold the gate for us even in the rain. I remember our long evening strolls reciting the times table. I remember you informed our music preference, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Michael Bolton are still a family favourite, I remember you informed my love for books. I remember every time you selflessly did what we wanted, I remember opening your box of goodies from your numerous trips and wondering why you never got anything for yourself. I remember every display of overwhelming patience and grace you showed me, even when I failed. I remember it all, because it lives in the heart of a daughter forever.
People often think that myself and my brother are from an extremely wealthy home, I laugh. Thank you for sacrificing so much to give us a privileged life.
For all of my fellow strong women who had strong fathers.
Who had a steadfast and dedicated dad that did everything in his power to show up and stand up. To be the best man he could be so that he could raise you to be the best woman you can be – I have a message for your amazing fathers as well. From all of us.
Thank you, thank you, thank you– from the bottom of our hearts we feel the strength of that presence. We feel your love and influence on our lives every day. Everyone who knows and cares about myself and my brother is unwittingly grateful for how my dad raised us.
We learned to love the way we were loved by you. We had high expectations because you set the bar high. We had high hopes because you taught us that love from another should be respectful, honest and encouraging. As a father, you taught so much more than a daughter could ever articulate.
Your patience, quiet notion of complete understanding and unwavering love made me the woman I am today. You believed in me first. You gave me all I could have ever needed, because you gave me love and a privileged life. And by giving me love, you taught me what love is and also what it isn’t. You showed me that love is being strong and humble, while also loving one’s self enough to reach for the stars. Love is respect and support on all of life’s endeavours.
Daddy, one day you’ll walk me down the aisle to another man, chosen in the image of how you taught me to be loved. When I let go of your arm, I hope you know that my heart is moulded in the shape of the love you showed me. I hope you know I’m never really letting go because I know that through any stage I encounter or dream I decide to chase, you’re still back there watching me, and waiting for my call. I know that in my heart there is no love like the first love, and that part of me will always belong to my dad. Wear your grey hair proudly papa, because it’s time for you to rip the good you’ve sown. One last thing, thank you for the awesome genes.
Forever,
Your baby girl.
God bless