I am anxiously awaiting the moment when I become a father. For those who know me, this is a no-brainer. I love kids, working with kids, and being around kids. No matter the age, situation, or environment, kids have such an amazing energy and spirit that I envy. There’s something about the thought of being a father that ignites my heart—simply put, I cannot wait to have a family.
In contemporary American culture, college students have become focused on their careers—laying out their futures in front of them until retirement. What about family? What about kids? Have you even considered a dog? As someone who is giddy with joy at the idea of having multiple children, it’s slightly disappointing to see a culture develop where family is somewhat pushed to the side. In response to this growing mentality, I’ve attached a letter below that I hope that my future children will read. It's a letter of hope, joy, and vibrant energy—that celebrates the importance of family and love.
Well, hi there.
Welcome to the world! Look around and see all of the amazing and beautiful things that it has to offer. In case you haven't guessed, you are the beautiful child for whom I've anxiously waited for nine long months. I brim with joy at the thought of finally meeting you. I have no clue who you are or what you look like, but I eagerly envision the moment that I get to hold you in my arms, feed you, keep you safe from anything that scares you, and love you unconditionally through thick and thin.
I will always be your biggest fan, your strongest supporter, and I will try to be the brightest light in your life. I will be there for you when you’re happy, sad, hungry, lonely, or angry (even at me). I will love you for who you are and who you will become and I will be there for your first breath as I hope that you’ll be with me at my last. I promise to always protect you and love you, probably more than you’d like me to, but it’s entirely out of love.
Know that when I dress you up as a sailor for Halloween or make you finish your Brussel sprouts, I care about you. Know that when I ground you or ask you to take out the trash, I will fight for you. Know that when I tell you to wear an itchy sweater or when I turn off the TV for bedtime, I will guide you. Know that when I cry with you, get you a puppy, take away your cell phone, or take you on a scary amusement park ride, I love you. I will always care about you, fight for you, and guide you.
But, most importantly, I will always love you.
That is something that I can promise you.
Excited to see your smiling face,
Your (future) loving father
Hopefully, one day my children will read this. As you go through your days this upcoming week, I encourage you to consider what drives your passion. For some, it may be money or success. However, I can genuinely say that the thought of becoming a loving father will forever and always be my driving force. Whatever your driving force may be, whether it is fame, fortune, family, or the like, may it guide your future to a bright and hope-filled outcome. It’s never too late to change the future—there’s nothing stopping you. Go for it.
