Today I am celebrating Mr. 1969, one of the best Father’s I know. I am thankful for him. Thankful that God has brought him into my life to be my partner in raising my two wonderful sons. I celebrate him….not for what he can provide but for all of the small things he does that no one notices but me. The way he teaches them to hold doors for ladies, when he tells them that their job is to always help mommy carry bags from the grocery, to say yes ma’am and sir when they encounter an older person. He teaches them the foundations of being men. More than anything he can give to them, he leads by example and shares his time with them. He talks to them, plays with them, reads to them and helps to raise them. He is a great Father and today is really his day.

My other two Father’s also deserve celebrating. One for giving birth to me, the other for raising me.

You all know that my mom was a single mom. She did it all and I am who I am because of her love, time and effort. I am a product of her upbringing and everything I do comes from a lesson she has taught me.

My Dad was not around in my life on a daily basis. In the past 8 years, we have reconnected and are playing catch-up. Our relationship is getting stronger but days like today are hard for me. I will call him tonight and wish him a happy Father’s Day but there are still hollow, empty spaces wishing they were filled with memories instead of longing. I am moving forward and that’s all I can do. The damage has been done and I can’t live in a broken down house forever….I have to accept the renovations and hope that when they’re done…..it will feel like home again.

To all the Father’s out there….thank you and enjoy your Day. If anyone is going to change the way the world is heading….. It will be you. Recognize your power, fulfill your destiny and continue to steer your children in the right direction. Now go eat some barbeque and wear that tie tomorrow with pride.