Dear Daddy,

Why Is It So Hard to Tell You How I Feel?

Maybe it’s because no words can truly capture the depth of love a child feels for their parent.

I don’t know if I turned out to be the child you dreamed of having, but you’re the father I always dreamed of. In the grand lottery of life, I hit the jackpot with you.

As a child, I looked at you with wonder.

You knew everything.

You could do anything.

You were my hero.

With you around, I didn’t have to be afraid—I felt safe.

I wanted to be like you.

I wanted to make you proud.

Then I grew up. And somewhere along the way, I started to think you didn’t know everything after all. The stubbornness of my teenage years made me question you, find fault in you, and say things I wish I could take back.

I thought I knew better.

I thought I didn’t need your guidance anymore.

But I was wrong.

It took time to understand that your warnings were love.

Your discipline was love.

Your hopes for me were love.

You were showing me the reality of life—a life that isn’t always easy. You were preparing me, even when I couldn’t see it.

I thought I had all the answers, but now, whenever I don’t, you’re the first person I turn to.

When I’m unsure, I think, Dad knows.

When I feel lost, I think, Dad will guide me.

When I’m hurting, I think, Dad is here.

You’re still the hero I looked up to as a child. And today, I’m so proud to be your child.

I love you.

Happy Father’s Day.