Alexandra 🌸

Dear Dad,

One moment that continuously stands out to me is when you taught us how to read. When I think of those days, I remember the BOB books lined up in their cases, eager to be opened and explored by us. You sat with us through each page, each word, each stutter, and each stumble, until we got it right. That patience stands out as just one of the many ways you have exemplified what it truly means to be a father.

Dad, because you took such an active part in weaving who I am, you remain present even as I take over the loom. In every new thing I sow, there are echoes of you inside of me. I perceive that you have touched every corner of my world; there is not a day that passes without your presence. I find you in my hopes and dreams, my early mornings, and cups of coffee. You are there in serendipitous conversations with strangers, gospel classics, intellectual debates, and the many playlists where I claim your music as my own. I see you in my sweet tooth, a good book, a fresh perspective, peanut butter, and the way I watch movies like a critic. I feel you when I give advice, counsel others, or spot Eagles paraphernalia… and in every single person from Philly I will ever meet.

The essence of who you are will not only bleed into my story, but also into the stories of my future partner and the children I hope to have one day. The lessons you have taught me have not been lost; they have been etched into who I am and, more importantly, who I strive to be. I pray that my future husband and I can be even half the parents you have been to us.

To be the person who reminds a child that every frustration has a solution, every setback has a breakthrough, and that failure can be a foundation; that is one of the greatest commitments a person can make. I believe it is a sacred calling that God extends to parents, but only some truly answer it. You have shown us what answering that call looks like.

You showed up. Through the sacrifices, through the tears we never saw, through the battles you protected us from, and through the days it must have been hard to even get out of bed… You always chose us, even in the moments it felt like life wasn't choosing you. Your consistent mantra of discipline and "no excuses" has shone through the brightest when it comes to your family.

Just like you sat with us through every word, every page, and every stutter and stumble, you still sit with us today as we read our own books of life. I know you'll be there for every setback, every frustration, and every failure — cheering us on, telling us to keep going, keep pushing, and keep pounding.

Happy Father's Day. I love you.
Alexandra_