You may have been present for the first few years of my life, but you were never really there for me. I can't remember every day we spent together, but I do have some memories of you. Unfortunately, not one of these memories is positive or is anything to be proud of. You probably didn't know that I relive these memories to this day, and sometimes they even break me down to tears. You aren't something that I am proud of, but I have grown from the memories of you.
I can honestly say that I forgive you for leaving, because it was the first step to creating the family that I have now. If it wasn't for your poor decision making, I would not have an amazing man in my life that I call my dad, I would have never become best friends with my sister, and I wouldn't be closed with the cutest little brothers that can brighten any day. Today, my mom is stronger than she has ever been. And today, my brother and I, the children you walked out on, are living lives full of success. I am sorry that you made the decision to leave my life, because you are missing out on the experiences that any father should get with their daughter. But, you lost the title of being my father a long time ago.
When you left, I was not without someone to play the father role in my life. My mom did an amazing job of playing both. I also had my Grampy who took me to my first Daddy Daughter Dance. Soon after that, I finally had someone to call my dad, He has been there for everything from my first volleyball game, to my eighth grade graduation, to all of my senior nights, and all the way up to my college move in day. He is the one that I call when I am walking home from campus at night in the dark, and he will be the one to walk me down the aisle if that day comes.
Although you have my forgiveness, I will never forget anything that you did to hurt my family. You tore us apart, and left when you were done. Sadly, this is a part of me forever. You didn't just make me weak and afraid, but you gave me the opportunity to be strong and fearless. For that, I thank you. In no way would I wish for you to be a part of my life again, but I do wish you could see everything that you are missing out on.
When I think of you today, all I do is hope that you have learned from your actions in the past. I hope that you have turned your life around and have become a man that you can be proud of. And if you're out there thinking of me, you should know that I am doing well today, and things will only get better. Without you, I am OK.
