Thank You to My (Step) Dad
Start writing a post
Relationships

Thank You to My (Step) Dad

To the guy who's always been there.

56
Thank You to My (Step) Dad
Jayden Taylor Cartelli

Growing up was very different for me. I lived in a small town in the south where divorce was not yet seen as 'normal', and having moved from the hustle and bustle of California, life felt as upside down as ever. My mom was a single parent for as long as I can remember, and my friends and heir parents were always quick to ask what my family situation was whenever I was around, as though it were normal to pester a child over their family situation. However, my life has only changed for the better with gaining a stepdad. He has taken the initiative to step into being my dad, being at every production I've ever been apart of, helping me with homework, trying to explain percentages to me (which I still can't seem to grasp), and has been there for me when I've gotten my heart broken.

Though it is hard being a part of a mixed family at time, my family is a unit. Without having my stepdad as the glue to my family unit, we would be nowhere. We would not have had the experiences, travels, and laughs we have shared. My family would no longer be my family. Because of this mixed family, I've had the opportunity to grow and learn from so many different people, have many different experiences, and live a full, incredible life. Embrace the differences in your family, except them, and use them for strength in uniqueness and happiness rather than feeling as though your family is not good enough.

To those who criticize the stepparents of the world - I'm sorry, but you're wrong. Stepparents endure hardships of being accepted by their own kids, establishing their own families, and planting roots. Cut some slack for those who have to do this for the love of their families. I am beyond grateful for my stepdad's efforts in making our family whole, and I will be forever grateful.

Overall, I would like to give a big thank you to my stepdad. He has put up with me through puberty (ouch, so sorry), through my stresses and failures, and even my successes. He is the first to praise me on my achievements, whether they be in school, in life, or in work. He is the guy who picks me up when I'm sad, and he is the only person in the world who laughs at all of my jokes. He is the guy who I look up to, the guy who taught me everything I need to know about hockey. He is my stepdad, my dad, my family.

Thank you, Dad. Thank you for experiencing my life with me, being my biggest supporter, and for always making me laugh. Though we aren't blood related, you are my father figure and the man I look up to. Thank you.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

58943
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

38052
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

959562
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

195870
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments