An Open Letter to the Man Who Loved Me First, My Dad

Dear Dad,

As one of the most influential people in my life, you have taught me a lot of lessons that have shaped me into the individual I am today. And for that, you deserve some recognition. Yes, I know it must be hard for you to see me grow up, leave the nest, and continue on with my life journey. But with the knowledge I have generously acquired from you, I can step confidently toward my future.

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I strive to be compassionate, driven and as humble as you.

Thank you for always pushing me to better myself. I’ll always remember you telling me, “be a leader” and “set an example for others.” I know a lot of the time you may feel underappreciated for your hard work and dedication. But speaking for my brothers and sisters, as well as myself, there is not a day where we don’t appreciate everything that you do for us.

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I am so blessed to have this life, and a man patient enough to wait for me to realize that.

You have always been the crutch for me to lean on when I find myself between a rock and a hard place. I appreciate you letting me make my own mistakes but at the same time being there to say, “I told you so” when I do.

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Thank you for setting the example of what true love looks like.

Most people can’t say they’ve been with their spouse for 30 years, but you and Mom are a primary representation. Society says you should marry a man who reminds you of your father, I just hope I can find a man half as amazing as you when that time comes.

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One of these days, I will be getting married.

It will be a bittersweet moment for you and me both – I know we will both be crying because I get my sensitivity from you. But, as you give me away to the next man in my life, know he will love me just as much as you do…but I will always love you, the first man in my life. Thank you for being my backbone.