As I look back on my life I can identify many great memories that I have had over the years with my father. One memory that sticks out is getting up at 6am on Saturday mornings and watching the smurfs. Every Friday night my father would stop at the doughnut shop to purchase freshly baked pastries so that we could heat them up the following morning and indulge while watching cartoons. Every Saturday morning we ate apple fritters and twists while we laughed and enjoyed our time together.
Between the ages of 6-10, I had no idea about the complications of life. I didn’t understand that my father worked a full time job and also had household responsibilities. I didn’t understand or even know that he might even be tired or sleepy. In my eyes, my father was superman and never needed rest. He always made everything look seamless and easy.
My father was (and is) the ultimate superhero. He served as my protector and always told me how special I was. He opened doors for me and taught me how a young lady should be treated. He was always excited to spend time with me and treated it as an honor and not a chore. I was his shadow as we were always together visiting family or spending time together doing fun activities. He also taught me responsibility through assigning daily chores. He modeled discipline and also helped me complete my homework assignments. Most importantly he taught me that your word is everything and that you must honor your commitments.
As an adult, I realize that my father set the blueprint for my self-identity. There is no doubt in my mind that I am who I am in part because of the love I received from my father. It is no secret that a father’s presence is critical to a child’s personal development. Some might even say that the heart of a father is the masterpiece through which God displays his greatest gifts.
Today, I want to take a moment to salute my father and thank him for all of the sacrifices he has made to help me become the best version of myself. I also want to honor and salute all of the fathers who have helped lay the foundation and made sacrifices for the betterment of their children.
Happy Fathers Day!
Dr. Heather Jett is a Psychologist and Life Coach with a private practice in Newport Beach, CA. Her practice provides individual, couples, and family therapy to persons who are seeking a directive approach. She also enjoys working as a Life and Leadership coach helping others to reach their fullest potential. She personally enjoys the opportunity to connect with readers through her writings to encourage clients to attain their personal breakthrough!