An Open Letter to Dads Who Are Confused (and Anyone Who Needs More Love)

I want to give a big hug to all the brave dads out there.

The love and care and effort you put in will be appreciated, and will be rewarding one day, even if you don’t see it right now.

Your kid hasn’t been alive as long as you have, and there might come a time when you guys don’t see things the same way for a long time. Maybe ever again.

But that’s okay – that’s the beauty of humanity. We think differently and lead immensely diverse lives. It would be boring if your kid was just a photocopy of someone else.

I discovered that I had become too busy to make my dad feel appreciated.

I assumed he’d always be there, right as the next opportunity would vanish in an instant. School, work, trips. You know what? It’s really the other way around.

My dad had more faith in me than I ever did. He told me to take my time, and figure out what I wanted to do. I told him I was sick of staying in one place. He told me I’d find my way once I set my mind to it, as long as I am 100% committed (this is much more credit than I gave myself). He was more focused than I could ever hope to be.

So a shoutout to all you awesome dads out there who know what’s best for your kid(s) as they’re navigating this confusing world, and who pick your kids up wherever they are. There will be a time in the future when they look back and think, ah, Daddy was right.

And, Dads with daughters are extra resilient! I know how girls can drive you nuts. My dad watched me grow wild with wanderlust. He was patient. I am the wild one in the family, after all.

Whether you’re a dad or a mom or a daughter, today, I encourage you to flip the tables–let someone know you appreciate them by doing something kind for them. It can be something as simple as writing a card or introducing them to a new friend or a phone call.

You will feel so good knowing you’ve made someone’s day. Get love by giving love.

Your relationships will become stronger and more meaningful. In fact, I encourage you to go out of your way to do one kind gesture for someone every month.

The fact that it’s not an occasion means you’re thinking of them out of the blue, making it that much more special. By the end of the year, you’ll have 12 stronger, closer relationships. We don’t know how much longer any of us will be here, so the least we can do is make others feel appreciated.

Have an amazing day!
Grace