A Letter to Dear Daddy

Dear Daddy,?

On your birthday, I find myself reaching for pen and paper, yearning to write you a letter even though you're no longer here to read it. It's been so long since I saw your familiar smile since I heard your calming voice, and felt the comfort of your hug. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you, and the ache of missing you never fades.?

There are so many things I still wish I could share with you. Life has moved forward, as always, with moments of happiness and struggle. Your granddaughters are growing up to be amazing young women – you would be so proud of them. They remind me so much of you, especially how they face challenges head-on with quiet determination. I wish you were here to witness their achievements, to guide them, and to fill our home with your laughter.?

There have been times when I could have used your advice – your wisdom, your patience, and the way you always knew how to calm my storms. I wonder how different life would be if you were still with us. Would we still have those long talks, where you always seemed to have the answers I needed? Would we still sit around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughing, like we used to? I miss those moments the most.?

The pain of losing you is something that will never fully leave me. There’s a hole in my heart that nothing can fill. But I try to hold on to the things you taught me – to be strong, to love deeply, and to cherish family. I often think back to the lessons you gave me without even knowing, through your actions more than your words. You showed me what it meant to be dedicated, not just to your work, but to the people you loved. You taught me to face life with integrity and courage, even when the road seemed impossible.?

Daddy, your spirit still lives within me. I hear your voice in my mind when I feel lost, urging me to keep going, to stay strong, and to believe in myself. You gave me that strength, and it’s what helps me get through the hard times. I wish I could tell you in person how much you shaped the person I am today.?

On this day, your birthday, I find myself caught between sorrow and gratitude. While I ache for the years we could have had, I am endlessly thankful for the time we did share. I celebrate your life today, not with sadness, but with love. You left behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and love that continues to inspire me every single day.?

Thank you for everything, Daddy. Thank you for being my guide, my protector, and my hero. Though you were taken from us far too soon, the impact you made on my life will stay with me forever. I know you're still watching over us, and I hope you can feel the love and gratitude I carry for you in my heart.?

I will hold onto our memories and keep your spirit alive in everything I do.?

With all my love,?

Minni