Dyan: I have always had a very supportive and loving relationship with my father. In fact, he was one of the very few male role models I’ve had to impact my life. Both my grandfathers died at a young age and with the exception of one family friend’s father, my dad was pretty much on his own when it came to having male influence in my life. I thought it would be interesting to hear my 15-year-old daughter’s perspective, who has been blessed beyond measure with a lot of male support and championship. So in honor of Father’s Day, I am sharing her tribute.
P.S. DAD… I wouldn’t be where I am today without you. I am forever in awe of you as a dad, friend and husband and I simply adore you.
Alyse: Growing up, I’ve always had many strong male figures in my life, but over the past year, I noticed how much of an impact they make on me. Stepping onto the basketball court, I’ve always loved that feeling of adrenaline after making a good shot or pass to a teammate, but I am beginning to notice this year that those good passes and good shots aren’t always to the fullest if my dad’s not there.
Every time I look into the crowd and see someone that’s been there for me my whole life, like my grandpa or father or a person who’s helped me get to where I am today, something clicks. That thing that clicks makes me realize that they’ve put in the work for me, including a lot of turns and they’ve been there for me. It pushes me to want to make that next shot and that next pass for them, because I want to make them proud.
I’ve also begun to notice those friends around me who may not have the amazing male figures in their lives like I have. When I look at those kids, it reminds me of how much has been sacrificed to make me who I am and give me what I have today. That I am a direct reflection of their love and sacrifice.
I am constantly reminded I am blessed to have these male figures in my life. How fortunate I am for strong men in a world full of pain and in a time when there aren’t that many models left. But I can’t help but wish other men would step up and be role models in kids’ lives. I feel like we need it now more than ever.
I have several family friends’ dads that have made a huge lasting impact on my life. They were not obligated to pour into me, but they chose to. It’ll be neat to see as I grow older how much I reflect back on them and their influence.
This Father’s Day may we reflect on all the men that have impacted us and created a better world for us all.
