Dads seem to sometimes be the forgotten hero, raising tough independent women who forget how much a dad has affected their life. Dads are busy leading by example while helping solve the everyday problems. Teaching through imitation rather than intimidation what exactly to do and to want. My dad has raised the bar for dating incredibly high and college boys have struggled to quite meet it.

I think of how different I would be had I not had such a strong male role model in my life raising me to become who I am today. Teaching me that boys who make you cry are generally not worth the tears, girls who are mean are not worth the time, and just how strong unconditional love is. The important life lessons of men have been learned largely by him showing by example just what I truly do want.

He is incredibly kind to my mother, remembering anniversaries, birthdays and holidays in between. Surprising her with gifts of flowers and unexpected dinners. He donates time, money and resources to the less fortunate while always seeming to have time for the family and whoever needs him. He’s raised the dating bar to be a selfless person who puts the needs of others above his own, someone who is sensitive enough to take feelings into consideration, and kind enough to perform random gestures to friends, family and everyone in between.

He holds open doors, pays checks, and never forgets to treat my mother like the lady she is. Finding time to be the handyman, the driver, and the one who seems to cover all the stressful parts of life. Taking care of the taxes and the bills. It is a wonder how one man can truly do it all. My dad seems to, so when boys are too busy to even text back I think of my dad who answers my calls at work, remembers my birthday, and wishes me a happy first day of school text. Seeming to fall short, when they forget to be kind I remember how my dad is one of the most genuine and generous people I know. I hope to one day find a man half as great as my dad. With Superman as my dad, my hope is that means I have powers too.