I am fortunate enough to have a lot of father figures in my life. Today’s as well as every other day we should be giving them more credit for what they do.
Grandpa.
He’s no longer with us but damn he was a hell of a man. One of the greatest fathers of all time. He had five children, two boys and three girls. He worked as a school bus driver and custodian while his children were in school. Once the youngest (my father) was of working age my grandpa started his own painting/carpentry business. His two sons learned to call him “Boss.” He chose to be there for his children no matter what and by any means be a presence in their lives. He was the same was with his grandkids. We spent our entire summers with him after he retired. He would take us on walks, teach us how to garden, read to us, take us swimming at the local pool, take us to church or running errands. He was a true old-fashion family man. To this day I admire that man. He’s everything I aspire to be. He was so goofy and he loved making people laugh. He was a great man and the best father figure. I love you, to the moon and back.
Dad.
I couldn’t even begin to explain the bond I share with my father. I am the epitome of a daddy’s girl. We have VERY similar personalities, passed down to us by my oh so goofy grandpa. Goofy is genetically encoded. He called me Cookie my entire childhood. Nowadays he just calls me Cook. Raised me and my two sisters as a single father, never remarried after my mother. He is the type to help anyone in need. He has the purest heart. Every father should be exactly like my dad. He taught me so much. Because of him I have a soft spot for single dads. He loved my sisters and myself as individuals but equally. He was always fair and just. He never judged anyone for anything. He was the voice of reason throughout my life. My confidant and best friend. I value him more than he’ll ever know. He’s never led me astray or made me doubt his love for me. He’s an honest man of integrity. The world would be a better place with more people like him in it. I love you dad.
Boyfriend.
Where do I begin? First of all, you would do anything for the mother of your child. When she needs you, you’re there. You defend her honor and display undying loyalty. I absolutely adore that about you. I love baby mama, her and I are blessed to get along so well. I think she can tell I’m genuine and knows I get it having had a child of my own. She can see how much I love your child together and that I would do anything for her. Anything from all the times I’ve picked her up from school to the times I wipe the tears from her cheeks. That girl is so lucky to grow up surrounded by so much love. But you, my dear, are absolutely astonishing. You not only live your daughter to pieces but you treat my son as if he is your own. You take on so much responsibility with the kids that I no longer feel like I’m doing it alone, for the first time in forever. You teach them so much, from catching their first fish to riding a bike. They adore you and always reach out to hold your hand. I couldn’t ask for a better teammate and father figure for my son. I never expected anything from you, but you’ve done more than anyone else ever has. I respect you and love you so much darling.
Step Dad.
We may have not always seen eye to eye but you had my back. We were very different, in personality and beliefs but we have had some amazing times. You never wanted to see me hurt and always comforted me during hard times. We didn’t have the best relationship but it’s because you never raised daughters, so everything was new to you and you weren’t what we were used to either. I still hope you know that I love all the time I spend with you and mom. I will always be here for you.
Ex-Husband.
I may not understand it but I know you somehow love our son. You love him in your own way. He still doesn’t get to see you as much but I tell him you love him everyday. He’s very confused about it still but I try to explain in a way he will understand. You just love him differently. You aren’t a horrible dad, you never really had an example as to how to parent. I remember teaching you how to tie a Windsor knot, something a father ought to teach his son. You know our sons in good hands and I’m completely capable. Your name will never be slandered in this house because you are a part of him. Just try your best and that’s good enough. After healing and looking at the situation rationally I totally understand. No pressure but I hope you have a wonderful Father’s Day.
The Mad Mind of Coraline 