Became the dad I never had for my own kids

3w ago·1 min read

My father was checked out the whole time I was growing up. Barely knew him. Swore I'd be different and I actually followed through. It's hard sometimes because I don't have a model for this but I'm present, I listen to my kids, I tell them I'm proud of them. My 11 year old told me I'm his best friend last week and I almost cried. Miss having that connection growing up but I'm creating it for them instead.

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Comments(6)

EEricRegular3w ago

This hits different man. My dad was the same way and I made the same promise to myself. Some days are chaos but I wouldn't trade being present for anything. You're already crushing it just by showing up.

FFrank D.Regular3w ago

This is exactly what I'm trying to do with my daughter. Seeing that you actually followed through gives me so much hope, man. Hard is worth it.

BBrandonNew Dad3w ago

That's the dream right there. Taking your pain and turning it into presence for your kids is one of the hardest and most important things a dad can do.

PPete A.Regular3w ago

Every day is a new adventure with my little one and I'm realizing how much my presence actually matters. You breaking that cycle is real inspiring stuff.

EEvan M.New Dad3w ago

That's a beautiful thing right there. Breaking the cycle is hard work but it sounds like you're nailing it. Your kids are lucky to have a dad who actually wants to be there.

KKevinRegular3w ago

The fact that you're even thinking about this stuff means you're nothing like your dad already. Keep going.